First Grade Magistrate Court  in Neno has a man to to eight years imprisonment with hard labour for defiling a 13 year-old girl.

State prosecutor, Golden Kakoma  has  identified the convict as  Gabriel Tobia.

Kakoma told the court that on March 31, 2023 the victim left home around 7:35 AM without the knowledge of her mother and went to Magaleta Village where the accused resides.

He added that on Monday March 3, 2023 the victim decided to go back home and upon arrival her mother took her to Ligowe Police Unit where they were further referred to Ligowe Health Centre for examination.

He further said hospital report shows that the girl was defiled and was infected by sexually transmitted infection as the report shows that she was diagnosed with smelly vaginal discharge.

Tobias pleaded guilty and admitted to the offense and prayed for the court’s leniency as he is a first offender, he is of youthful age and that he is also still a student.

Passing judgment, First Grade Magistrate Margret Khobiri said defilement cases require a stiff punishment; hence, sentenced Tobias to eight years imprisonment with hard labour.

Gabriel Tobias is 21 years old hails from Nangwanji Village in the area of Traditional Authority Mlauli in Neno District.