The Chief Resident Magistrate's court in Thyolo has convicted and sentenced Evance Shembani 35, to 14 years imprisonment with hard labour (IHL) for having sexual intercourse with a 16-year-old female child.

State Prosecutor Inspector Ishmael Abubast informed the court that the offense took place at Chirombo village, under Traditional Authority Chimaliro within the district, where Shembani resided with his wife (the victim’s sister).

According to the state, the victim frequently visited the household to watch television. Shembani took advantage of his wife's absence to assault the girl.

The abuse came to light on May 29, 2026, when Shembani's wife caught him in the act with the victim in the toilet. She immediately reported the matter to the police, leading to his arrest.

A subsequent medical examination confirmed that the victim had been repeatedly abused.

In court, Shembani pleaded guilty to the charges but asked for leniency. He argued that he was a first-time offender with family responsibilities, adding that he supports several orphans.

However, the state countered his mitigation, emphasizing that the offense carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The prosecution further argued that as a brother-in-law, Shembani was duty bound to protect the victim and therefore deserved a stiff punishment.

Presiding Chief Resident Magistrate Shyreen Yona Chirwa concurred with the state's submissions. Noting the gravity of the offense, it posed serious doubts if he could take good care of the said orphans hence sentencing Shembani to 14 years IHL to serve as a deterrent to others.

Shembani hails from Chirombo village under Traditional Authority Chimaliro, in Thyolo district.