By Panashe Divine Karidzagundi
A Beitbridge woman has successfully obtained a protection order against her estranged husband following allegations of harassment and inappropriate conduct involving her children.
Ropafadzo Matonhodze, appeared before Magistrate Mbonisi Kaweni seeking legal protection from Nelson Sithole, the respondent in the matter whom she said assaults, threatens, stalks and insults her.
In her application, Matonhodze told the court that she feared for her safety and the well-being of her children.
She requested that Sithole be barred from visiting her place of residence at House Number 23337, Hawkflight Area in Beitbridge.
She also sought to prevent him from contacting her directly or indirectly, including sending other people to her residence.
Matonhodze further asked the court to prohibit Sithole from communicating with her or her children, particularly her three children from a previous relationship, alleging that he had been speaking to them in an inappropriate manner.
The court heard that although the two share one child, they are no longer living together.
Following proceedings, both parties were instructed not to cohabit.
The court noted that while Sithole may communicate through a third party regarding matters concerning their shared child, he is not permitted to directly engage with Matonhodze outside those arrangements.
Magistrate Kaweni granted the protection order, ruling in favour of the applicant.
The order bars Sithole from assaulting, threatening, stalking, or insulting Matonhodze.
He is also prohibited from using abusive or inappropriate language towards his children.
The protection order to remain in force for a period of five years.