Tinotenda Hove – Silobela Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Offence Involving Girlfriend’s Child

A 38-year-old man from Silobela has been sentenced to 15 years in prison by the Kwekwe Regional Court for an offence involving his girlfriend’s 12-year-old daughter.

The incident occurred in May 2025 around 5 PM. At the time, the girl was at home with her younger siblings, aged 9 and 4. Their mother had briefly stepped out to find mobile network coverage to contact a relative, leaving the children in the care of the accused.

During her absence, the man sent the two younger children outside and instructed the 12-year-old girl to go into the bedroom, where the offence took place. The act was interrupted when the mother returned home unexpectedly. Suspicious of what she walked in on, she questioned her daughter, who then disclosed what had happened.

The matter was reported to the police that same day, leading to the arrest of the man.

The court noted that the offender had breached the trust placed in him and stressed the importance of safeguarding children in all environments. Authorities have praised the swift action taken by the mother and the courage shown by the child in speaking up.