Harare Woman Fined for Cyberbullying Neighbour

Munyaradzi Mashiri – Court Correspondent

A Harare woman, Media Mashiri, has been fined US$120 after being convicted of cyberbullying her neighbor through a defamatory text message that accused the woman of being a prostitute and stealing other women’s husbands.

The incident occurred on May 10, 2025, when Mashiri sent the offensive message to her neighbor, Babra Maruza.

The message, which was read aloud in court, labelled Maruza a "prostitute," a "liar," "evil-hearted," and of "loose morals."

The verbal attack triggered a serious domestic dispute between Maruza and her husband, causing emotional distress and public embarrassment for the complainant.

Following the altercation, Maruza reported the matter to the police, leading to Mashiri’s arrest and prosecution under cyberbullying and digital communication laws.

Prosecutor Mandirasa Chigumira presented the case at the Harare Magistrates Court, where Magistrate Gamuchirai Gore found Mashiri guilty and imposed a US$120 fine. Mashiri faces 45 days in prison if the fine is not paid.

In sentencing, Magistrate Gore condemned the growing trend of online abuse, stating that “cyberbullying is a serious offence that can have lasting psychological effects on victims.”

He emphasised the importance of upholding dignity and mutual respect within communities, particularly in the age of digital communication.