Appearing before Ndola based High Court Judge Emelia Sunkutu was Caleb Simfukwe of Kopalanda village in Mbala district. He was convicted of one count of defilement contrary to the laws of Zambia.

Facts before that court were that on May 4, 2017, the convict defiled the minor who was left under his care by her parents as they lived in the same area.

And in mitigation, Simfukwe asked for leniency saying he was a first offender and that his action was prompted by the devil.

But in delivering judgment, Judge Sunkutu said blaming the devil for such barbaric action against an innocent child cannot be an excuse.

"I have take note of your mitigation however, I must set the record straight that not even the devil can be blamed for such barbaric act against an innocent child. It is unthinkable!...The defiled child has been traumatized and may never be able to form decent relationships in the future.

"I must state categorically here that it is heartbreaking to see neighbours taking advantage of children who are not able to defend themselves. The offence committed by Simfukwe was grave hence it was incumbent upon the courts of law to mete out heavy sentences to deter would be offenders now and or in future," reiterated the Judge.

Justice Sunkutu then slapped Simfukwe with a 40 year jail term with hard labour with effect from the date of arrest.