A former police officer, Knowell Muzenda, has been sentenced to community service for abusing his son. He pleaded guilty to the crime, which involved hitting his child with a rope, wire, and a brick. As part of his punishment, he must complete 120 hours of community service at the Mabvuku Police Station.
During the hearing, Muzenda asked for a lighter sentence, saying he supports his son, other siblings, and his pregnant wife. Magistrate Ayanda Dhlamini sentenced him to 18 months in prison, with six months suspended if he avoids similar offenses for the next five years. The remaining 12 months were also suspended if he completes his community service.
The abuse took place in Eastview Phase 6 while his wife, Sarah Mafara, was at a church conference. She testified in court, asking for mercy for her husband and stating that this was the first serious incident of violence in their family. She blamed his actions on alcohol and suggested they attend positive parenting sessions together.
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The prosecution argued that child abuse is a serious crime and asked for a stricter punishment, noting that Muzenda had a history of violent behavior towards his son. They pointed out that the incident was revealed after it was recorded and shared on social media. A probation officer said the child was traumatized, and the father’s claim of forgiveness from the boy did not lessen the seriousness of the abuse.
On October 6, Muzenda had sent his son to buy spaghetti. When the boy returned later than expected, Muzenda beat him with a rubber rope, wire, and bricks, causing injuries like a swollen cheek and bruises. The court emphasized that as a father, Muzenda should have protected his son instead of harming him. The prosecution pushed for a strong sentence to deter similar behavior in the future.
