Ouagadougou: The correctional chamber of the Ouaga I High Court sentenced two former partners who had re-established contact after 25 years of separation on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, for simulating a rape in order to obtain judicial authorization for an abortion, reports the online media outlet Zoodomail.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the defendants, Alima and Ibrahim, resumed their relationship in 2025 after a 25-year separation. Following a missed period, a pregnancy was confirmed in the woman. It was in this context that Alima revealed she was married, her husband living abroad. The two lovers then decided to terminate the pregnancy and concocted a false rape scenario in order to comply with the legal requirements for medical abortion.

After they filed their complaint with the prosecutor's office, an investigation was opened. The investigation established that the rape had not occurred. Evidence, including audio recordings found on their phones, confirmed that the act was premeditated. In court, the two defendants admitted to the facts. The prosecution denounced an attempt to mislead the justice system and requested a prison sentence and a fine for each of the accused.

In its decision, the court found Alima and Ibrahim guilty. It sentenced them to 12 months' imprisonment, suspended, and a fine of 500,000 FCFA each, of which 250,000 FCFA is payable immediately. The court also ordered the confiscation of the mobile phone used to commit the crime.