In a recent case of sexual abuse, the Nkhata Bay First Grade Magistrate’s Court has convicted and sentenced 38-year-old Chuma Phiri to 14 years imprisonment with hard labour. The conviction stems from Phiri’s defilement of an 18-year-old mentally challenged girl at Lwambaza in the district.
The court heard that on March 8, 2023, the victim was passing by Phiri’s house on some errands when he convinced her to enter his house in exchange for two fresh maize cobs. It was then that he proceeded to defile her, taking advantage of her vulnerable state.
During the trial, Phiri pleaded for leniency, citing his family. However, the state prosecutor, Sub-Inspector Isaac Imed, reminded the court that Phiri’s actions were a gross violation of the victim’s rights, and hence called for a stiffer punishment.
In the end, the court handed down a 14-year prison sentence with hard labour, sending a strong message that sexual abuse, especially of vulnerable individuals, will not be tolerated.
