Bulawayo, (New Ziana)-The Zimbabwe Republic Police has expressed concern over the alarming increase in cases of sexual abuse and rape involving minors across the country.
In a statement on Wednesday, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said many of the crimes are being committed by individuals who are entrusted with the care, safety and protection of the vulnerable children.
“These include parents, brothers, nephews, guardians and other relatives. In some instances, strangers ambush minors on their way to and from school, while others lure them with sweets, money, drinks or offers of lifts,” Nyathi explained.
He also highlighted disturbing reports of young girls being sexually abused by landlords and individuals with whom they share accommodation, particularly in urban areas.
“In some cases, prophets lure minors through their parents or guardians under the pretense of wanting to assist them.
“It is troubling to note that some of these perpetrators are individuals expected to provide a safe and nurturing environment for these children. Instead, they exploit and abuse the trust placed in them. In some instances, parents are complicit, either assisting the perpetrators or concealing the offenses,” he said.
Nyathi warned parents and relatives against ignoring cases of sexual abuse, cautioning that they risk arrest for defeating or obstructing the course of justice.
“In one case, a five-year-old girl was sexually abused by an unknown suspect while returning from school in a bushy area near Bravoland Mine Compound in Mberengwa on February 25, 2025.
“In another incident in Mutawatawa, Murewa, a 13-year-old girl was sexually abused by her 36-year-old uncle after she went to collect food from the kitchen in September 2024. This case was reported to the police on February 26, 2025,” he added.
He noted that in February this year, Lusulu police station recorded yet another case of sexual abuse involving a 14-year-old girl who was sexually abused by her uncle from February 2024 to November 2024.
“The victim had attempted to report the case to the suspect’s brother, but he merely reprimanded the suspect without taking further action. The offense came to light after the victim began complaining of stomach pains,” Nyathi explained.
He implored members of the public to report and collaborate with the police in the fight against child sexual abuse.
“Traditional leaders and the church are urged to partner with the Zimbabwe Republic Police in ongoing awareness campaigns against rape and child sexual abuse in the country. The police encourage the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect children from sexual abuse. Suspected cases of child sexual abuse should be reported to the nearest police station,” Nyathi said.
New Ziana
