HARARE regional magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa yesterday denied bail to two men accused of raping a 26-year-old socialite.
The rape occurred on April 30 this year when the complainant received a WhatsApp message from an unknown number inviting her to meet with Thabo Blessing Dube (27) and Martin Charlie (25).
She was reportedly taken to a room after arriving at a house in Eastlea, Harare, where she was assaulted.
According to prosecutor Rufaro Chonzi, Dube and Charlie allegedly locked the complainant in a room, where they forced themselves on her.
The court heard disturbing details of the ordeal, including threats made to the complainant to ensure her silence.
However, defence attorney Shepard Makonde applied for bail which Gofa denied, citing the severity of the offence and the risk of the accused fleeing.
The court also heard that both men have previous convictions and pending cases.
“I am doubting the State’s consent because the case is serious,” Gofa said.
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The woman underwent medical examination following the incident, whose results the prosecution plans to present as evidence.
Witnesses reportedly identified the accused, strengthening the case against them.
Dube and Charlie will remain in custody as the case proceeds, with the next court appearance scheduled for tomorrow.
