Photo Credit: National Criminal Lawyers
HARARE: A 25-year-old commuter omnibus tout has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old Grade 7 pupil at a busy Harare transport hub. The case has raised renewed concern over child safety in public spaces.
Givemore Mutape was convicted by Harare regional magistrate Fadzai Mthombeni following a full trial that detailed how the incident unfolded at the Rezende Street Parkade rank in July last year.
The case has drawn attention from communities and child protection organisations. Concerned groups are highlighting ongoing risks faced by children navigating public transport systems, particularly in crowded and loosely regulated urban environments.
According to evidence presented in court, the complainant had travelled into central Harare to collect money for extra lessons from a family member. After receiving the money, she proceeded to the Rezende Parkade rank to board transport home.
While waiting to board a commuter omnibus, she encountered congestion and confusion at the rank, where touts were directing passengers. It was during this time that Mutape approached her and offered assistance.
The court heard that the accused directed the girl into a parked commuter omnibus under the pretext of helping her secure transport. Once inside the vehicle, he closed the doors and sexually assaulted her, according to court testimony.
The victim later returned home, and the incident came to light two days later after concerns were raised by a family member regarding her delayed return. She subsequently disclosed the incident to a teacher, prompting the matter to be reported to authorities.
The State, led by prosecutor Kudakwashe Muza, presented evidence that supported the sequence of events and established the circumstances surrounding the offence.
The court heard that the incident occurred during the day at one of Harare’s busiest commuter ranks, raising broader concerns about safety and oversight in such public spaces.
During the trial, Mutape denied the charges and maintained that he was not working as a tout but was instead engaged in repairing a commuter omnibus radio at the rank on the day in question. He also made claims relating to his physical condition, which he argued made it impossible for him to commit the offence.
However, after evaluating all the evidence presented, the court rejected his defence and found him guilty.
Mutape had initially appeared before regional magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa in September last year, before the matter proceeded through the courts, ultimately concluding with sentencing at the Harare regional magistrates’ court.
The 15-year sentence has been viewed as a significant outcome in a case involving a minor, with legal observers noting the importance of accountability in such offences.
However, child rights organisations say the case reflects a broader challenge that extends beyond a single incident.
Advocacy group SayWhat said the case underscores the urgent need to strengthen child protection systems, particularly in high-traffic public areas such as transport hubs.
“As an organisation dedicated to safeguarding children, we commend the justice system for ensuring accountability in this case,” the organisation said in a statement. “However, this incident reminds us that many children – especially those commuting to and from school, remain vulnerable in crowded and unregulated public spaces.”
The organisation emphasised that environments such as commuter ranks can present risks when adequate safeguards are not in place, calling for a coordinated response from authorities and stakeholders.
“Every child deserves safety, dignity and protection,” the statement continued. “We continue to call on local authorities, transport operators, community leaders, and stakeholders to work together in ensuring safer environments for children across Zimbabwe.”
The case has also reignited discussions around the regulation and management of commuter omnibus ranks in Harare and other cities. These spaces, often characterised by high volumes of passengers and informal operations, can become difficult to monitor effectively.
Parents and guardians have expressed concern about the safety of children who rely on public transport for daily activities, including travel to and from school. For many families, especially in urban areas, children frequently travel alone, making them more exposed to potential risks.
“There is need for stronger oversight at transport hubs, increased presence of security personnel, and improved coordination between transport authorities and law enforcement agencies,” said Chamunorwa Masikati, a Harare resident.
There are also calls for enhanced public awareness and education, aimed at equipping children with knowledge on how to navigate public spaces safely, as well as encouraging prompt reporting of suspicious behaviour.
