By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare, 2 October 2025– Two Masasi High School learners appeared at the Mutare Magistrates’ Court this week facing multiple charges of gang raping their 17-year-old schoolmate, in a case that has triggered strong public outrage and condemnation from community organizations.
The boys, aged 16 and 17, were remanded in custody to October 14 by regional magistrate Mrs Phathekile Msipa. Prosecutor Mr Last Goredema opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the case and community anger.
The suspects – one from Dhaure Village and the other from Rimai Village under Chief Marange – were arrested on Sunday evening. They face three charges under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23]: rape (Section 65), aggravated indecent assault (Section 66), and indecent assault (Section 67).
According to the State, on February 8 the two allegedly gave their schoolmate a drink on the way home from school, after which she became intoxicated. The complainant was then taken to a secluded area, where the learners allegedly raped her and filmed the incident. The video was later shared by one of the accused with a friend before being leaked months later, sparking national outrage after going viral on social media.
Reports presented in court said the footage shows the juveniles boasting about their actions. Initially it was believed an older person had discovered the clip and raised the alarm, but it has since emerged that the video was circulated by one of the suspects.
Meanwhile, community-based organizations (CBOs) in Marange – ZIDAWU Trust, Marange Women’s Alliance, and YETZ – issued a joint statement strongly condemning the rape. They described the case as a violation of children’s rights and called for the survivor to be provided with counseling, medical care, and protection from further harm.
The groups also urged schools to strengthen child protection policies, step up awareness on healthy relationships, and work with authorities to combat drug abuse and the misuse of technology. They further called for tougher enforcement of laws against child abuse.
“As CBOs operating in Marange, we will not rest until justice is served and our communities are free from violence and exploitation,” the statement said.