Zambia (Lundazi): The Lundazi Magistrate Court has ordered a 17 year old boy to a Six months probation after being found guilty of rape, contrary to Sections 132 and 133 of the laws of Zambia.
Appearing before Lundazi Resident Magistrate Miyato Muyambango was Michael Mwanza of Dunda Compound in Lundazi.
Facts of the offence are that on 18th April 2023, Michael Mwanza, jointly and whilst acting together with three other persons unknown, unlawfully had carnal knowledge of Mirriam Kaombe without her consent.
The accused pleaded guilty to committing the offence and asked the court for leniency.
In mitigation, the accused pleaded with the court to pardon him, saying he had learned a lesson from the time he was remanded in custody and that he would not commit the said offence again.
Before judgement, Lundazi District Social Welfare, Child Welfare Inspector Natasha Siwakwi told the court that it’s unfortunate that the juvenile, despite being the first offender, is a parent at his age.
Siwakwi, however, recommended the juvenile be taken to the child-approved centre at Nakambala in Mazabuka District in line with the Children’s Code Act number 12 of 2022 of the laws of Zambia to give him an opportunity to reflect on his behaviour and learn other survival skills.
Meanwhile, Magistrate Muyambango has ordered the convict to six months probation with effect from 31st January 2024 to ascertain his conduct.
Crime in Lundazi is increasing, especially rape cases reported at 30 per cent as per the recent data.
Last month, a Zambia Police officer also got two years of jail for corruption. The Lundazi Magistrate Court has sentenced a prosecutor for Zambia Police in Lundazi to two years and four months imprisonment with hard labour for corruption.
Siame said the Anti-Corruption Commission arrested Chiboboka in January 2024.