BY STAFF REPORTER
A Lupane man has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for physically abusing his wife on two separate occasions.
The incidents occurred on December 27, 2024, and January 2 this year, with the accused assaulting his wife with open hands, fists, and a whip, causing injuries to her face and body.
The court heard that the first incident was sparked by a domestic dispute over the complainant’s whereabouts on Christmas Eve.
The accused became violent, assaulting his wife, who managed to escape and seek refuge at her aunt’s homestead.
In a shocking turn of events, the accused visited his wife at her aunt’s homestead, seeking forgiveness, and she agreed to return home with him.
However, upon their arrival, the accused again accused his wife of infidelity and assaulted her multiple times with a whip.
The court sentenced the accused to 12 months in prison, with six months suspended on condition of good behavior.
In Zimbabwe, domestic violence is a serious crime, and perpetrators can face up to 10 years in prison under the Domestic Violence Act [Chapter 5:16]. The court’s decision in this case sends a strong message that domestic violence will not be tolerated.