Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
BULAWAYO has recorded 28 rape cases in just one month, a grim statistic that has heightened concern among law enforcement authorities and child protection stakeholders.
With sexual violence becoming one of the city’s pressing social challenges, police have intensified awareness campaigns while appealing for greater community vigilance, stronger parental supervision and prompt reporting of sexual offences.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, said the figures were worrying as every rape case represented a life traumatised, a family devastated and a community left grappling with the consequences of a crime that often leaves permanent emotional and psychological scars.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police in Bulawayo Province is greatly concerned by the 28 rape cases that were reported during the past month. These statistics are worrying and demonstrate that more still needs to be done by all stakeholders to protect vulnerable members of our communities,” said Insp Msebele.
Beyond physical injuries that victims may sustain, she said the crime leaves lasting psychological trauma that can affect survivors for the rest of their lives.
Insp Msebele said while police continue to investigate every reported case thoroughly and professionally, preventing sexual offences remains the most effective way of reducing the growing number of victims.
“We urge members of the public to report all cases of rape and attempted rape without delay. Early reporting enables police to secure vital evidence, conduct prompt investigations and improve the chances of successfully prosecuting offenders,” she said.
Insp Msebele stressed that delayed reporting of rape cases often compromises investigations, particularly where critical forensic evidence is required.
“We continue to discourage the practice of settling rape cases outside the justice system. No amount of money or compensation can erase the trauma suffered by a victim,” she said.
“Such arrangements only embolden offenders and expose other innocent members of society to similar crimes.
“Parents should know where their children are at all times and who they are associating with. Young children should never be left unsupervised, particularly in environments where they may become easy targets for sexual predators.”
Insp Msebele said children should also be taught from an early age about personal safety, appropriate and inappropriate touching and the importance of reporting any form of abuse to trusted adults without fear.
She said community policing structures, neighbourhood watch committees, churches, schools and traditional leaders all have an important role to play in safeguarding children and raising awareness about sexual violence.
Insp Msebele said police would continue conducting crime awareness campaigns throughout Bulawayo Province to educate residents about preventing gender-based violence and other sexual offences.
“Victims of rape require support, counselling and protection. Communities should avoid blaming or isolating survivors because this often discourages others from reporting similar offences. We encourage families to stand with victims as they pursue justice,” she said.
“No one is above the law. Anyone who commits rape will be investigated thoroughly and, where sufficient evidence exists, prosecuted.”
Child protection stakeholders have also renewed calls for increased public education on sexual violence, saying preventing abuse requires continuous engagement with families, schools and communities.
Meanwhile, police have since urged residents to make full use of community policing initiatives by sharing information on suspected offenders and reporting suspicious activities before crimes occur.
“The safety of our communities depends on collective responsibility. Every parent, neighbour, teacher, religious leader and community member has a duty to protect children and vulnerable people.
“Working together, we can significantly reduce these offences and create safer communities for everyone,” said Insp Msebele.
