HARARE, March 5, (NewsDay Live) - Police have expressed concern over the rise in rape and sexual abuse cases involving minors, with most of the perpetrators being close family members.
In a statement released Wednesday, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said some parents and family members worked in cahoots with the perpetrators to conceal the abuse.
In some instances, strangers waylay the minors on the way to school and back, while some criminals lure the minors by offering sweets, money, drinks and lifts.
Additionally, there have been disturbing reports of young girls being sexually abused by landlords and individuals with whom they share accommodation especially in urban set-ups.
In some cases prophets lure minors through parents or guardians on the pretext they want to assist them."
He added: "It is disturbing to note that some of these perpetrators are people who are expected to provide a safe and nurturing environment for these children.
“Instead, they are exploiting and abusing the trust placed in them.
In some cases the parents will be at the forefront in either assisting the perpetrators or in concealing the offences."
- Mudariki’s vision for Zim contemporary art fair
- Artist Richard Mudariki’s vision for a Zimbabwean contemporary art fair
- Afrophobia: Can some in ANC stand up
- Chief sucked in woman disappearance case
Keep Reading
Nyathi called on victims' parents to desist from obstructing the course of justice or sweeping the matters under the carpet even if they involve close family members.
Police cited a recent case where a five-year-old girl was sexually abused by an unknown suspect while coming from school in a bushy area near Bravoland Mine compound in Mberengwa on 25th February, 2025.
In another case, on February 26, 2025, Lusulu Police Station recorded a case where a 14-year-old female juvenile was sexually abused by her uncle from February to November 2024.
"The victim had tried to report the case to the suspect's brother. However, the other victim's uncle only reprimanded the suspect not to do it again.
“The offence came to light after the complainant began to complain of stomach pains," said the police.
