KADOMA — The Kadoma Magistrates’ Court has sentenced a 47-year-old man to an effective three years in prison for engaging in an unlawful relationship with a 16-year-old girl.
The conviction was confirmed by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) in a news bulletin dated January 29, 2026. The defendant, a resident of Kadoma, was found guilty of cohabiting with the minor as husband and wife since April 2025.
Discovery of the Offence
The illegal union was exposed on December 29, 2025, following a domestic altercation between the couple.
The Incident: The offender reportedly assaulted the victim by slapping her on the cheeks during a dispute.
Police Report: The victim escaped the assault and reported the matter to the police.
Investigation: During her statement, the victim revealed she was only 16 years old. Subsequent investigations confirmed that the pair had been living together since April 2025 and had repeatedly engaged in sexual relations.
Sentencing Details
The court handed down a sentence of four years imprisonment. However, one year was suspended on the condition of good behaviour, resulting in an effective custodial term of three years.
Official Statement
The NPAZ reiterated that safeguarding children from exploitation remains a top priority for law enforcement. "Communities are urged to report all cases of child marriage or abuse to their nearest police station," the authority stated in its bulletin. - Zimbo LIVE Harare
