Gweru court hands down stiff sentence for serial rapist
By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru Regional Court has sentenced a 30-year-old man, Obert Ncube, to 31 years in prison for rape and robbery. Ncube, who is already serving a 25-year sentence for similar offenses, was found guilty of two counts of rape and one count of robbery.
Senior Regional Court State Prosecutor Aggrina Matutu presented a strong case, highlighting the aggravating circumstances of the offenses. These included the use of a weapon, unprotected sexual intercourse, and the exploitation of vulnerable victims.
“In count number 3, you raped a Form 3 pupil in the bush, who was your girlfriend’s sister. You showed no regard for the devastating impact your actions would have on her life. You pretended to escort her, knowing full well you had planned to rape her. You betrayed her trust and violated her. In count number 4, you also employed force and threats,” Matutu stated.
The seasoned Prosecutor, Matutu demonstrated to the court that the defendant’s actions between August and September 2023 constituted a serious offense, and that he committed the crime under aggravating circumstances, proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
“What makes the offense even more egregious is that in all three counts, the defendant, Ncube, engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse with the victims, putting them at risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections and becoming pregnant,” she said
The prosecutor argued that Ncube’s actions demonstrated a complete disregard for women’s rights and safety, labelling him a serial rapist.
“‘The accused’s history of similar offenses, for which he is currently serving for sentences, clearly indicates that he is a serial rapist with no regard for women’s dignity and autonomy. He treats them as mere sexual toys for his gratification. Therefore, I request that you impose a sentence of 17 years for count 3, 15 years for counts 4 and 5, and 5 years for the robbery charge. The sentences should run consecutively, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the need to protect society from his predatory behaviors,'” Prosecutor Matutu argued.
The court agreed, sentencing him to 15 years for each of the two rape counts and one year for robbery. The sentences will run concurrently.
The victims, including a Form 3 pupil, suffered traumatic experiences at the hands of Ncube. The prosecutor emphasized the need for stiff punishment to reflect the severity of the crimes and protect society.
In mitigation, Ncube pleaded for leniency, citing his status as a breadwinner. However, the court prioritized justice and protection for the victims and society, handing down a significant sentence.
“Your Honor, I humbly ask for mercy and request that when you sentence me, I be permitted to serve my sentence consecutively, day and night, without any remission or respite” said Ncube.
