HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating prevalence of child sexual abuse across the nation, highlighting a disturbing trend of perpetrators being those entrusted with the care and protection of vulnerable minors.
In a press statement released on Wednesday, police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi expressed profound concern over the “heinous crimes” being committed against children.
The ZRP revealed that a significant number of these abuses are carried out by parents, relatives, guardians, and even landlords, exploiting the trust and vulnerability of children.
Instances of parents and family members concealing these crimes are also being reported, further exacerbating the issue.
“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,” stated Commissioner Nyathi.
The police provided several distressing examples, including the sexual abuse of a five-year-old girl in Mberengwa, and the rape of a 13-year-old by her uncle in Murewa, where the case was only reported months later.
In another case, a 14-year-old was repeatedly abused by her uncle over a period of nine months, with a family member’s attempt to resolve the matter internally failing to protect the victim.
The ZRP stated that concealing these crimes carries severe legal consequences, with parents and relatives facing arrest for obstructing justice.
The police have called upon communities to break the silence surrounding child sexual abuse, urging immediate reporting of suspected cases to the police.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns parents and relatives who sweep these cases of sexual abuse under the carpet that they risk being arrested for defeating or obstructing the course of justice,” the statement read.
The police are actively seeking collaboration with traditional leaders and religious institutions to bolster awareness campaigns and preventative measures. The public has also been urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard children.
“Members of the public are implored to come forward and join hands with the Police in the fight against child sexual abuse.
“Traditional leaders and the church are implored to partner the Zimbabwe Republic Police in the ongoing awareness campaigns against rape and child sexual abuse in the country,” Commissioner Nyathi stated.
“The Police urges members of the public to be 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 or on National Complaints Desk number, (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp 0712 800 197.”
