The First Grade Magistrate’s Court in Monkey Bay has sentenced 50-year-old John Mpereka to 14 years in prison with hard labour for raping a 15-year-old girl whom he employed as a housemaid.
The convict committed the offence between the 11th and 12th April, 2022, at Sumbi Village in Monkey Bay.
The court heard through State Prosecutor Sub inspector Mary Mbutuka that on 25th March 2022, the suspect went to Mangochi in search of a housemaid.
He met the victim whom he employed as a housemaid to take care of his 5-year-old son since he was on separation with his wife.
On April 11, 2022, the suspect went to the victim’s bedroom where he asked the victim to have sexual intercourse but the victim refused. He then threatened to sack her and send the victim back home.
Later, he undressed the victim and raped her. He repeated the sexual abuse the following day.
The child reported the matter to Monkey Bay Police Station where investigations were carried out.
Appearing in court, Mpereka voluntarily admitted to the charge of defilement.
In submission, Sub Inspector Mary Mbutuka told the court that cases of such nature are increasing in the area and the public look up to the court for protection hence prayed for stiffer sentence to deter the would be offenders.
In mitigation, Mpereka asked for leniency saying he is taking care of his 5 year-old son and he is a breadwinner.
Passing sentence, FGM Mtunduwatha Mpasu concurred with the State and sentenced him to 14 years IHL.
Mpereka hails from Masinde Village, Traditional Authority Chigalu in Blantyre District.
