Zvikomborero Parafini
DNA tests, which were conducted at the National University of Science and Technology, show that Madzibaba Ishmael is the father of three kids whose mothers were raped while they were 14-year-olds.
Madzibaba Ishmael appeared in court in Harare yesterday. According to the State, DNA tests were conducted on all the children and Madzibaba Ishmael at NUST and the results indicated that he was the father of the children.
All the complainants were 14 years old at the time and they are members of Johane Masowe eChishanu Gorejena Penyeranyika Sect and reside at Lily Farm in Nyabira.
The DNA Paternity Test Certificates are being held as exhibits and will be produced during trial.
The court heard that between February last year and March 12 this year, Madzibaba Ishmael used his leadership and influence to rape the first complainant.
As a result of the sexual act, the teenager gave birth to a baby girl on January 27, this year.
The matter came to light in March this year after the atrocious acts became public knowledge, prompting the police to investigate.
The victim was rescued in Mufakose at a safe house.
Upon being interviewed, she allegedly became hostile, due to the church’s indoctrination, which encourages married male congregates to have sex with young girls.
According to the State, the second complainant was raped from 2018 to early this year, and gave birth to a baby boy in 2022.
The third complainant was allegedly raped between 2020 and early this year and gave birth to a baby boy.
Meanwhile, Madzibaba Ishmael has raised complaints against the police for detaining him in a case in which he feels he should have been contacted by way of summons.
Through his lawyer Musindo Hungwe, Madzibaba Ishmael told the court in Harare yesterday that on his initial appearance in Norton, he was placed on remand and his arrest in this case was a breach of the law.
He said his unconditional release was an admission by the State that they violated the law.
Magistrate Stanford Mambanje ordered the State to investigate the complaints.
Lancelot Mutsokoti prosecuted. (H Metro)
