Man Sentenced to 15 years for Raping Mother-in-Law
A man from Mhondoro, Walter Maponga, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being found guilty of raping his 56-year-old mother-in-law.
This shocking incident took place in her bedroom, with the victim’s 94-year-old mother present in the room.
The 37-year-old, from Mandaza Village, was convicted by magistrate Jessie Kufa in a case presented by prosecutor Blessed Songozo, who described the evidence as compelling.
The crime occurred on September 17, 2025, in Makoni Village. According to court details, Maponga forced his way into the victim’s bedroom and began attacking her.
According to iHarare, he demanded sex while blaming her for his problems in his marriage.
“Upon entering the room, Maponga started assaulting the complainant, demanding to have sex with her while accusing her of taking away his wife from him,” the State proved.
During the assault, he pushed her to the ground. The attack only stopped when two neighbors, Godfrey Makoni and Cleopas Nziramasanga, intervened and helped the victim, eventually capturing Maponga.
Magistrate Kufa noted the strong evidence against Maponga, leading to his lengthy prison sentence.
The attack has left the community in shock, highlighting the breach of trust within families, especially with the victim’s mother present during the assault. The quick response of the neighbors was crucial in ensuring Maponga was caught and taken into custody.
