By Onny Gangata
GWERU- Police in the midlands province have expressed concern over a developing trend on the abuse of women and children, following the report of six rape cases in a space of two days.
ZRP Midlands provincial spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko pointed out that, in the majority of cases, the perpetrators are relatives of the victims.
“Police has noted with great concern that rape cases against women and children which are perpetrated by either relatives or people known to them continue to rise,” Insp Mahoko said.
“Observations indicate that these rape cases occur at any time of the day both in urban and rural areas.They are committed by men usually trusted by victims. Some trusted people take advantage and rape vulnerable women and young children.”
Insp Mahoko added that some of the rape cases are influenced by religious and traditional beliefs.
“Some are claimed to be influenced by traditional beliefs, poverty or other factors,” he added.
Giving a detailed insight into the rape cases that occured between 4-5 January this year, Insp Mahoko said a 9 year old girl was raped by her uncle in Gokwe Chireya area of Mumvura village after being left in his custody, a suspect, Noah Chinovhiringa(52),was arrested in connection with the case.
He added that police are looking for Max Tshuma of Hwata village, Chief Sogwala in Lower Gweru in connection to a case in which a 17 year old juvenile was sexually abused.
Police are again looking for William Chitawa (40), who is wanted in connection to the rape of a 14 year old girl whom he is alleged to have raped after he was left in the custody of the minor.The incident occured in Lower Gweru area of Gabuza village under Chief Bunina.
In Kwekwe, Proud Maposa (35),was arrested for allegedly raping a 15 year old girl in Chicago suburb. Maposa allegedly offered the teenager, who was searching for employment as a maid accomodation, purportedly waiting for a prospective employer, before raping her the same night.
Police are also on the hunt for Maxen Dube(68) of Ruby farming area in n Gweru for allegedly raping a 39 years old woman.Dube is said to have forced himself on the woman, who is also his in-law, while she was bathing.
Misent Moyo (36) of Magomana village under Chief Mahlabadza, Mberengwa was arrested for allegedly raping his 22 year old ex girlfriend while she was herding cattle.
Insp Mahoko urged the public to report all cases of abuse and added that the police are currently working with different organisations to raise awareness on Gender Based Violence (GBV).
