The Bulawayo Regional Magistrate’s Court has convicted Gift Ncube, a 21-year-old man, of rape and sentenced him to 20 years in prison, to be served consecutively.
On February 15, 2026, at approximately 3:00 AM, Ncube broke into the home of an 81-year-old victim.
He violently subdued her, threatened to kill her, and attempted to strangle her before raping her.
After committing the crime, Ncube tried to escape but was apprehended by the victim’s neighbors, who were alerted by her cries for help.
The victim’s escape further emphasizes the bravery of those who intervened during this horrific incident.
This crime, which took place in a senior citizens’ community, highlights the urgent need for increased safety measures to protect vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe condemns such acts and urges communities to work together to prevent sexual violence.
