Dangamvura rapists resurface

Liberty Dube
CASES of serial rapists in Dangamvura that had stopped following the arresting of two suspects, Beston Nadholo and Norman Mutasa early this year have resurfaced amid reports that a woman in the sprawling suburb was raped and robbed last week.

Although the two were believed to be behind the reign of terror that had gripped the high-density suburb in recent months where several rape and housebreaking cases were reported, they are yet to be convicted.

Police this week confirmed that a daring masked and knife-wielding man recently sexually abused a woman at her house in Area 16 before vanishing.

He is still at large.

Police in Dangamvura last weekend launched an awareness blitzkrieg by writing letters to churches sprouted in the high-density suburb warning rapists to be on the look-out for the rapists.

“Following the recent rape case, we distributed the letters to all churches in Dangamvura urging them to be cautious and vigilant against these criminals. They are so cunning and daring. They are also very patient that they take their time to study their targets before they pounce. After the rape the person demands money and other possessions.

“These criminals wear masks and usually wield knives. People should always lock their doors, gates and windows during the night. We also urge victims to alert neighbours as soon as such an incident happens,” said a police officer at Dangamvura Police Station who could not be named citing protocol.

He said they were now targeting schools.

The criminals usually operate at night, open doors to several houses before raping unsuspected complainants.

Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Tavhiringwa Kakohwa, said the criminals use the same modus operandi.

“Women and girls should be cautious. They should always make sure that their children are locked in before it gets dark since the criminals usually attack under the cover of darkness. We appeal to anyone with information leading to the arrest of criminals of such acts to conduct their nearest police station,” he said.