Mazowe man jailed for stoning mother‑in‑law

Courtroom gavel 

MAZOWE — A Mazowe man, Abbition July (31) of Sammerdale Farm, has been sentenced to four years in prison after he attacked his mother‑in‑law, Tabeth Bvuwe (60), leaving her with two front teeth knocked out, the court heard. Bindura magistrate Sheila Nazombe handed down the sentence, suspending one year on condition of good behaviour. July had pleaded not guilty but was convicted following evidence presented by the State.

Prosecutor Clever Nyapfani told the court that on 24 February, July went to Bvuwe’s home at about 1:00 am. Bvuwe, who was asleep, was awakened by barking dogs and found July outside demanding to know why his wife was divorcing him. When she did not respond, the prosecutor said that July assaulted her with open hands and then stoned her in the mouth, causing the loss of two front teeth. The attack prompted criminal charges and a trial that concluded with the magistrate imposing a custodial sentence to reflect the seriousness of the assault.

Sentence and conditions

• Sentence: Four years’ imprisonment.

• Suspension: One year suspended on condition of good behaviour.

The court’s decision reflects the gravity of the offence and the physical harm inflicted on a vulnerable victim.

Legal observers say the sentence sends a clear message about the consequences of gender‑based and domestic violence. The case highlights risks faced by older family members in domestic disputes and underscores the need for community awareness, protective measures, and timely reporting of violent incidents. Victim support groups and local authorities often urge survivors to seek medical attention and report assaults promptly so that evidence can be preserved and perpetrators held accountable.

Mazowe man jailed stoning mother‑in‑law 2026