Bulawayo Truck Driver Accused of Sexual Assault on...

Bulawayo Truck Driver Accused of Sexual Assault on male Passenger

Munyaradzi Mashiri

Zim Now Court Correspondent

A Bulawayo truck driver and his assistant appeared in court facing charges of aggravated indecent assault after allegedly coercing a 23-year-old male passenger into a non-consensual sexual act.

Richard Ncube, 48, and Alex Moyo, 22, both residents of Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, were remanded in custody following their appearance at the Harare Magistrates' Courts.

According to court documents, the incident occurred on November 10, 2024. The complainant boarded Ncube’s haulage truck in Halfway, Chegutu, intending to travel to Chitungwiza via Harare. Ncube, who was accompanied by Moyo, drove the truck to Zim Meal Company in Waterfalls, Harare, where they parked upon arrival around 1 a.m. on November 11.

The court heard that while the complainant rested in the truck, Ncube allegedly initiated unwanted sexual advances, which the complainant rejected. Moyo then reportedly intervened, threatening the victim with what appeared to be a firearm and forcing him to comply with Ncube's actions.

Prosecutors allege that Ncube proceeded to assault the complainant, using petroleum jelly before forcibly engaging in non-consensual sexual acts. After the assault, the complainant remained in the truck until dawn as he was unfamiliar with the area. At around 6 a.m., he left the scene and reported the matter to ZRP Mbare, leading to the arrest of Ncube and Moyo.

The State is treating the matter with the seriousness it deserves, given the alleged use of threats and physical force. The court has since ordered the accused to remain in custody pending further investigations.

This case highlights the need for vigilance and accountability in protecting passengers and holding perpetrators of sexual violence to account. The matter has been adjourned to allow the police to gather additional evidence.