The Mutare High Court has granted bail to two Masasi High School students, aged 16 and 17, who are facing charges of gang-raping a 17-year-old female schoolmate.

Justice Isaac Muzenda presided over the matter, releasing the minors into the custody of the Department of Social Development under stringent conditions.

The decision comes as the two accused students are currently writing their ZIMSEC Ordinary Level examinations at the school, a factor that may have weighed on the court’s consideration regarding their temporary release.

The primary condition for the learners’ freedom pending trial is that they must not, under any circumstances, interfere with witnesses, a measure aimed at protecting the integrity of the investigation and the safety of those involved.

The two male students stand accused of the gang-rape of a fellow 17-year-old student from the same school.