Harare- A 50 year old Epworth man has been hauled at Harare Magistrates Court facing serious charges related to the alleged sexual abuse of two young boys in his neighborhood.

Allan Chitsike was brought before Regional Magistrate Donald Ndirowei charged with two counts of aggravated indecent assault. He was not asked to plead during the initial hearing and was remanded in custody.

Prosecutors indicated they are preparing an additional five charges against Chitsike, expected to be brought before the court next week.

The court heard disturbing details involving two seven-year-old complainants.

In the first incident, alleged to have occurred last Saturday, one boy reportedly went to Chitsike’s house to collect ZiG10 (Zimbabwean currency) as payment for a scrap teapot.

Prosecutors allege Chitsike invited the child into his room, led him to his bed, stripped him, and sexually abused him.

The court was told that a friend of the boy’s mother later saw him leaving Chitsike’s house and questioned him, leading to the revelation.

The second charge involves another seven-year-old boy. According to the State’s case, Chitsike allegedly called the boy over while he was playing, took him into his room, placed him on his bed, and sexually assaulted him.

Following the alleged assault, Chitsike is said to have promised the boy a plate of sadza (a staple maize meal).

Later that same day, he reportedly called the boy and gave him the plate of sadza and vegetables. The boy subsequently disclosed the alleged attack to his father’s friend.

Prosecutor Tambudzai Masamvi represented the State. The case highlights grave concerns over the safety of children in the community.

Chitsike is scheduled to return to court next week to face the initial charges, with the prospect of further counts being added.