By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Two male juveniles, aged 17 and 16, have been formally charged with rape and indecent assault at the Mutare Regional Magistrates’ Court following an incident that has shocked the nation and ignited widespread condemnation on social media throughout the weekend.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) confirmed the charges, stemming from a sexual assault that was allegedly filmed by one of the accused and subsequently went viral on various platforms.
The incident dates back to the afternoon of February 8, 2025, in Marange.
According to the State’s allegations, the two accused persons were walking home with the 17-year-old schoolgirl victim when the first accused allegedly offered her an intoxicating drink.
The two then reportedly dragged the incapacitated victim to a secluded area in a nearby forest where the assault is alleged to have occurred without her consent.
Viral Video Fuels Public Fury
While the alleged crime took place months ago, in February 2025, the matter exploded into the public domain this past weekend after a video, allegedly recorded by Accused 2 during the commission of the act, was circulated widely online.
The graphic and disturbing content of the video prompted immediate and intense public backlash across Zimbabwe, with citizens, gender rights advocates, and community leaders demanding swift justice for the victim.
The sheer volume of outrage led to pressure on authorities to act decisively, underscoring the serious societal implications of gender-based violence intersecting with digital media.
The two suspects were apprehended on September 28, 2025, at 1800 hours.
During their court appearance, the State firmly opposed bail, citing the severe nature of the offences and the high level of public interest the case has generated.
The juveniles have been remanded in custody until October 14, 2025, when further proceedings are expected.
Zimbabwe’s Law on Sexual Content in the Digital Age
The widespread distribution of the assault video brings Zimbabwe’s comprehensive legislation on digital content into sharp focus.
The filming and dissemination of such material are governed not only by the primary criminal charges of rape and assault, but also by provisions of the Cyber and Data Protection Act.