Magwegwe Man Remanded Over Alleged Rape of Ex-Wife

A 38-year-old Magwegwe man has been remanded in custody over the alleged rape of his ex-wife (image source)

A 38-year-old man from Magwegwe has been remanded in custody after appearing before the Bulawayo Regional Court on charges of rape following an alleged attack on his former wife in the early hours of July 27, 2025.

Court papers presented in the magistrates’ court state that the accused entered the woman’s bedroom at about 4 a.m., forcibly dragged her to the sitting room where their children were sleeping, turned off the lights, and allegedly ordered her to lie on the floor before committing the assault, according to prosecution submissions filed in court. The alleged victim underwent a medical examination, and an affidavit describing the assault was submitted as part of the state’s evidence.

Prosecutors told the court that the assault followed a forced entry into the residence, with reports indicating that the accused smashed a bedroom window to gain access. A companion may have been present during the incident, details which feature in related court filings and media accounts. The accused was remanded in custody pending further court procedures, and the matter was set down for continuation before the Bulawayo Regional Court, reflecting the gravity of the allegations and the need for thorough adjudication.

Family and community reactions to the alleged attack have been marked by shock and concern, with local observers urging victims to report incidents promptly and for law enforcement to ensure arrests are followed by transparent investigations and victim support. Legal practitioners stressed the importance of preserving forensic evidence and protecting witnesses, especially where children are present at crime scenes, to strengthen the prosecution’s case and uphold procedural fairness.

The Bulawayo magistracy has previously emphasised the judiciary’s role in handling sexual offences with sensitivity and urgency while guaranteeing the accused’s right to a fair hearing. Court sources indicate that the prosecution will rely on medical reports, the complainant’s sworn affidavit, witness testimony, and any corroborating exhibits captured during the police investigation to establish the elements of the offence in court.

Advocates for gender-based violence victims noted that remand decisions in serious sexual offence cases are often driven by concerns about witness intimidation, the safety of complainants, and the risk of the accused absconding. They called for continued support services for the alleged victim and her family during the legal process. Civil-society groups urged authorities to accelerate forensic and psychosocial support for survivors to improve prosecution prospects and reduce secondary trauma.

The accused remains in custody as the criminal process continues and the court prepares to hear further evidence and submissions in the coming weeks.