LIVINGSTONE HIGH COURT CONVICTS FATHER AND SON FOR DEFILING A MINOR.

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lusaka, January 13, 2024 –

The Livingstone High Court delivered a decisive verdict in a harrowing case of defilement in which a father and son duo had unlawful carnal knowledge of the same girl who happened to be the former’s step daughter.

Joseph Bwalya aged 55 was sentenced to 30 years Imprisonment with hard labour while his son, Ben Bwalya, was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment with hard labour. The verdict was delivered on January 12, 2024, following a thorough and impartial trial.

The convicted duo, both of Macha road, were found guilty of heinous acts of defilement, which involved the abuse and exploitation of a minor aged 13. The court, led by the Honorable Judge Catherine Lombe Phiri carefully considered the evidence presented by the prosecution and, after a fair trial, rendered a judgment which reflects the gravity of the crime committed.

Last year, the Choma Magistrates’ Court found Joseph Bwalya and his son, Ben Bwalya, guilty of defilement and committed them to the High Court for sentencing, noting that the state proved their case beyond reasonable doubt.

Brief details are that in the first count, Joseph, who is the step father to the Victim, on dates unknown but between December 1, 2022 and January 31, 2023, had unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under the age of 16. While in count two, the step brother to the victim, Ben Bwalya, on dates unknown but between 1st and 31st July, 2022 had unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under the age of 16.

We commend all police officers, legal professionals, and support staff involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case for their dedication and diligence. Their unwavering commitment to justice has resulted in a successful conviction, sending a clear message that such reprehensible actions will not be tolerated within our society.

Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER.