Man gets 7yrs IHL for defilement

Mangochi Second Grade Magistrate’s Court on Monday convicted and sentenced 32-year-old Daudi Khoviwa to seven years imprisonment with hard labour (IHL) for defiling a seven-year-old girl.

The court heard through police prosecution witness Maston Chitsonga that Khoviwa committed the offence early this month at Saidi Nyota Village in the district.

Chitsonga said the girl, on the fateful day, left home in the company of her brother to watch movies at a video show room operated by the accused at around 7pm.

“The victim went to answer a call of nature; while outside, she met the accused who got hold of her. He took the girl to a nearby garden and had sex with her,” said Chitsonga.

The State tendered a medical report, which proved penetration had taken place and a caution statement as part of evidence to the case.

Khoviwa pleaded guilty to the charge of defilement.

Passing judgement, magistrate Pyson Mwenyali observed that the maximum penalty for the offence of defilement was death or life imprisonment.

Mwenyali said the convict, however, deserved a custodial sentence because of the manner in which the offence was committed.

Khoviwa comes from Undi Village, Senior Chief Makanjira in the district.