By Hilda Tanga

MARONDERA– A manhunt has been launched for a man who broke into the bedroom of an 83-year-old granny and raped her in Mutoko at Kaparira Village, Chief Chimoyo.

As confirmed by the provincial police spokesperson Inspector Simon Chazovachiyi, the elderly woman was sexually abused on May 13 at around two in the morning.

The elderly woman was sleeping in her bedroom when she subsequently woke up and discovered that her door was wide open. Upon noticing that unusual occurrence, she did not think much of it as she assumed it was her old age getting to her, and got up to lock the door.

“After locking the door, she reportedly went back to bed when an unknown person emerged from the shadows inside her bedroom and suddenly attacked her. The elderly woman was beyond terrified when the unknown person reportedly grabbed her neck and strangled her to make sure she did not make noise.

“She started screaming for help but because of the strangulation, her efforts were futile. Then the unknown person had his way with her and raped her. Upon being sexually assaulted, the elderly granny reportedly escaped from her bedroom and went to her daughter whom she informed,” Inspector Chazovachiyi said.

Mother and daughter then reported the incident to the police who rushed to the crime scene and a search party was conducted but failed to locate the culprit. Police is now seeking any information which may lead to the identity and arrest of the rapist.

He also said: “The public is urged to make sure they protect the vulnerable old people from such forms of abuse by staying close to them as such crimes turn to be more criminally motivated. Traditional leaders are urged to take part in educating the young not to victimise the elderly.”