Four individuals have been fined after being caught engaging in s@xual activity in a public space at night in Southlea Park.
Mellisa Mapanga (23), Rutendo Joseph (27), and Elsie Mupesa (22), all identified as s@x workers along with their client, Takura Pedzisai (35), appeared before Mbare Magistrate Tatenda Mukurunga, where they admitted to charges of disorderly conduct.
The three women told the court that they relied on sex work for their survival. Magistrate Mukurunga sentenced each of them to a fine of US$50 or 45 days in jail if they failed to pay.
Pedzisai received a steeper fine of US$100. The court noted aggravating circumstances, particularly that he was married and his wife is currently pregnant, a factor that weighed heavily in determining his penalty.
The incident has raised renewed concerns over public decency and the risks associated with nighttime activities in open spaces.
