Mighty Warriors coach Mlauzi out on bail over sexual assault charges

TAKUDZWA HILLARY CHIWANZA 

HARARE – Shadreck Mlauzi, the head coach of the Zimbabwe women's national football team, was released from remand prison on Wednesday after posting US$300 bail. He is facing two counts of indecent assault against a female staff member of the team.

Shadreck Mlauzi's trial has been set for October 27. 

The alleged sexual assaults took place in Zimbabwe and South Africa while the team was preparing for and participating in the Cosafa Women's Championship last month. 

The identity of the complainant has been withheld for her protection.

Mlauzi had challenged the court's jurisdiction over the second count, arguing that it happened outside Zimbabwe.

However, Magistrate Yeukai Dzuda dismissed his application, saying that both parties were representing Zimbabwe in South Africa and therefore the matter should be heard in Zimbabwe.

Dzuda set October 27 as the date for Mlauzi's trial. 

The complainant has accused Mlauzi of making unwelcome sexual advances and groping her on several occasions. 

She said he asked her to kiss him, massage him, and have sex with him, but she refused. 

She also said he grabbed her buttocks and made lewd remarks.

She reported the incidents to the Cosafa Safeguarding Officer, who later counselled her.

ZIFA is conducting its own investigations into the allegations, but the complainant has expressed dissatisfaction with how ZIFA has handled the situation. 

She said Mlauzi stayed in the same hotel as her during their time in South Africa.