BY LWANDILE TSHUMA

A 43-year-old man from Chinotimba, Victoria Falls, has been remanded in custody for allegedly raping a 13-year-old girl at knifepoint.

The court heard that on October 10, 2024, the accused entered the complainant’s bedroom while she was alone, armed with a knife, and forcefully undressed her before committing the crime. He then threatened to kill her if she revealed the incident to anyone.

The matter only came to light on January 12, when the young girl confided in her aunt about her ordeal.

The accused appeared before the court and was remanded in custody until January 28.

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A surge in human-crocodile conflicts has prompted the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) to issue a warning to the public to exercise extreme caution when near water bodies.

According to ZimParks, over 20 incidents of crocodile attacks have been reported in the past two months, resulting in eight fatalities and three serious injuries. The attacks have also posed a threat to livestock.

The most affected areas include the South East Lowveld, specifically Lundi, Tokwe Mukosi, and Lake Mutirikwi, which have recorded six incidents. The Central Region, including Munyati River, Kwekwe River, and Sebakwe River, has seen five incidents, while the Mid Zambezi area, comprising Lake Kariba, Hunyani River, and Angwa River, has also recorded five incidents.

ZimParks is urging the public to remain alert and take necessary precautions when engaging in domestic activities near water bodies.

Livestock owners are advised not to leave their animals unattended near rivers or lakes, as they may become easy targets for crocodiles.

“In light of these, the authority urges the public to exercise extreme caution around water bodies and remain alert while engaging in domestic activities near these areas to minimise the risk of crocodile attacks,”Zimaparks cautioned in a press statement.

“To minimize the risk of conflict with crocodiles, livestock should not be left unattended near rivers or lakes to prevent them from becoming easy targets for crocodiles.”

The authority reiterated its commitment to promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife, ensuring safety and fostering respect for wildlife for the benefit of present and future generations.

BY COURT REPORTER

A Tsholotsho man’s life of crime came crashing down when he was sentenced to six months in prison for burglary.

Mengesi Sibanda, 26, from Susumani line, was convicted of stealing ZAR1600 in cash from a complainant’s bedroom on January 9.

The court heard that Sibanda had unlocked the complainant’s bedroom door and made off with the cash. He then gave ZAR1500 to his accomplice, Zikhiye Ncube, who transported the stolen money to South Africa and handed it over to Sibanda’s wife.

Meanwhile, Sibanda blew ZAR100 of the stolen cash on beer at local outlets.

In passing sentence, the Tsholotsho Magistrates’ Court condemned Sibanda’s actions, saying he had shown no remorse for his crime.

Sibanda was sentenced to 12 months in prison, with six months suspended on condition of restitution. He will serve an effective six months behind bars.