By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has voiced serious concerns regarding the alarming rise in child sexual abuse and rape cases throughout the country.
In a statement released on Wednesday 05 March, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi called on parents, guardians, and the community to take immediate action to protect minors from these heinous crimes.
Commissioner Nyathi revealed that many of these offenses are being committed by individuals who should be offering care and protection to the children.
“Among the perpetrators are parents, siblings, uncles, guardians, and other close relatives. Strangers have also been reported to lure minors using various deceptive tactics, including offering sweets, money, drinks, and transport,” he explained.
The statement further outlined troubling reports of young girls being sexually abused by landlords and individuals they live with, particularly in urban areas.
“Some so-called prophets have also been implicated, luring minors through their guardians under the pretext of offering assistance,” Nyathi stated.
The police department also condemned situations where parents or guardians either aid the perpetrators or cover up such crimes, emphasizing that those found guilty of obstructing justice will face legal action.
To highlight the severity of the issue, Nyathi referenced specific cases that illustrate the disturbing trend. In one instance, a five-year-old girl was sexually assaulted by an unknown perpetrator in a bushy area near Bravoland Mine Compound in Mberengwa on February 25.
Another egregious case occurred in Mutawatawa, Murewa, where a 13-year-old girl was raped by her 36-year-old uncle in September 2024; this case was only reported to the police on February 26 of this year.
Additionally, Lusulu Police Station documented a case involving a 14-year-old girl who faced sexual abuse by her uncle from February to November 2024. This abuse remained concealed until the victim began experiencing health complications that revealed the truth.
In light of these incidents, the police are urging public participation in awareness campaigns against child sexual abuse. Commissioner Nyathi called on religious institutions and traditional leaders to engage actively in these efforts.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases to the authorities.