Hopley man jailed 15 years for attempted sexual assault of Grade 6 pupil

A HOPLEY man has been sentenced to 15 years in jail by Harare magistrate Sandra Mupindu after he attempted to sodomise a Grade 6 boy (image source)

HARARE — A Hopley resident, John Chamboko, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after a Harare magistrate found him guilty of attempting to sodomise a Grade 6 pupil. Magistrate Sandra Mupindu handed down the custodial term after ruling that the State had presented overwhelming evidence, taking into account the timing of the complaint and the accused’s defence.

The court heard that the incident occurred on 17 November 2025, when the minor was bathing at home. Prosecutors say Chamboko entered the bathroom claiming he needed to use the toilet. Once inside, he allegedly made sexual advances, telling the boy he was handsome and requesting anal sex. When the child refused, the accused reportedly attempted to bribe him with US$5 to secure his silence.

According to the prosecution, the complainant tried to leave the bathroom but was grabbed by Chamboko, who pulled him closer and lowered his trousers to expose his erect genitals. The boy resisted, striking the accused with an elbow and managing to escape. He immediately reported the assault to his mother, who, with the help of neighbours, escorted Chamboko to ZRP Southlea Park to lay a formal complaint.

Magistrate Mupindu said the evidence presented by the State, including the victim’s testimony and the circumstances surrounding the report, left the court satisfied of Chamboko’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The magistrate rejected the accused’s denials and emphasised the need for stern sentences in cases involving sexual offences against children. The sentence reflects the judiciary’s firm stance on protecting minors and deterring sexual violence. Legal observers noted that the conviction underscores the importance of prompt reporting and community action in bringing alleged offenders to justice. Neighbours’ intervention and the mother’s swift response were highlighted in court as critical to ensuring the matter was investigated.

Child protection advocates welcomed the sentence but urged broader measures to prevent such incidents. They called for increased community awareness, stronger safeguarding in neighbourhoods, and accessible support services for victims and families. Psychosocial support for the child and his family was recommended to help them recover from the trauma. The case has reignited calls for vigilance in communities and for authorities to prioritise child safety. Police and social services were urged to work closely with schools and local leaders to strengthen prevention strategies and ensure that children who report abuse receive timely protection and care.