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Dumani Madi

Thandeka Moyo, Court Reporter
A MAN from Cowdray Park suburb in Bulawayo who dragged a Form Four pupil into a sandpit next to graves at Luveve Cemetery before raping her, has been sentenced to 20 years in jail.

Dumani Madi (25) pleaded guilty to rape when he appeared before Regional Magistrate Mr Chrispen Mberewere.

He told the court that the girl, who was a virgin before her rape ordeal, volunteered to undress herself.

Madi said the “Devil” drove him to rape the naked girl.

Magistrate Mberewere said the rape was committed in aggravatory fashion and Madi had permanently scarred the victim.

“Cases of rape continue to rise and the courts will continue to protect women and girls from like-minded criminals who go around humiliating other humans,” he said.

“Accused is sentenced to 20 years of which five years are suspended on condition of good behaviour.”

In mitigation, Madi maintained Satan was to blame.

In response, Magistrate Mberewere rubbished Madi’s claim saying: “The court will not tolerate criminals who hide behind the Devil. It’s not like you saw the Devil in person. Everyone must be responsible for their actions.”

Prosecuting, Mr Simbarashe Manyiwa said on June 17 (last Friday), Madi spotted the girl walking from school as he was herding cattle near the cemetery.

“He left his cattle and caught up with the girl, asking where she was heading to. He then grabbed her by the throat and dragged her into a sand pit at the graveyard,” said Mr Manyiwa.

“He forced the girl to undress and lie down. Madi raped the girl once and went away. The girl notified members of the public leading to Madi’s arrest.”