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A businessman of Kabanana Township has appeared in the Lusaka Magistrates court and pleaded not guilty to sexually abusing seven girls.
Richard Mwanza, 44, is charged with seven counts of defilement contrary to Section 138 (1) of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Republican laws.
It was alleged that between January and November, 2023, Mwanza had unlawful carnal knowledge of children under the age of 16.
Read more: 53-year-old man faces court sentence for sexually abusing grand-daughter, aged 5
Appearing before Magistrate Chrispin Hampungani, Mwanza denied the charges.
He was, however, denied bail on grounds that he was safer in custody than at his home.
This was after the State objected to his application and stated that for his own safety and protection, it would be better for him to be in custody as his home was in close proximity to the victims.
Mwanza admitted to the fact that his shop was looted and destroyed because of defilement allegations.
Trial commences on February 22, 2024.
According to a police statement, Mwanza is alleged to have committed the offence in his shop on different occasions.
It is alleged that he gifted the victims money, sweets and biscuits after defiling them.
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