By Smile Hamilton, Malawi
The Chitipa Magistrate’s Court has sentenced Joseph Kaonga, a 22-year-old man, to 14 years imprisonment with hard labor for defiling a 13-year-old girl.
According to Sergeant Samuel Ndafewa, the prosecutor, Kaonga had carnal knowledge of the girl on the nights of September 18 and 19, 2024. Ndafewa added that Kaonga bribed the girl with biscuits, energy drinks, and K2,200 to keep quiet about the incident.
Constable Mathews Mfune, assisting prosecutor, stated that the state had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt. However, before sentencing, Kaonga asked the court to exercise leniency, citing his responsibility to support his family and promising to take care of the girl’s education.
Despite his plea, First Grade Magistrate Billy Ngosi sentenced Kaonga to 14 years imprisonment with hard labor, emphasizing that the sentence would serve as a deterrent.
This sentencing is consistent with previous rulings in Malawi, where the courts have handed down similar sentences for similar offences.
Similarly, in July 2024, the Chitipa First Grade Magistrate Court sentenced Vinja Kaombo to 14 years imprisonment for defiling a 12-year-old girl. Similarly, Happy Lewis Simwaka was sentenced to 14 years for defiling a minor and five years for abduction in Rumphi.
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