By Simbarashe Sithole
A Mount Darwin artisanal miner, Tawanda Wagoneka, has been jailed for 30 years after being convicted of raping his 13-year-old neighbour twice.
Wagoneka appeared before Bindura regional magistrate Sheilla Nazombe, where he was sentenced to 30 years behind bars after being found guilty of the offences.
The court heard that Wagoneka took advantage of the minor’s vulnerable circumstances, particularly after her mother fell ill, before sexually abusing the girl.
The abuse came to light after a tip-off, leading to investigations and Wagoneka’s subsequent arrest.
Edward Katsvairo prosecuted.
The case has once again highlighted concerns over the vulnerability of children to sexual abuse, particularly when they are left in the care or proximity of adults who exploit their circumstances.
The court imposed the lengthy sentence in light of the seriousness of the offence and the age of the victim.