adminThe officer commanding crime in Lupane police district, Superintendent Obert Ngirazi, said the arrested grandfather lived in village four, Hlanganani area under Headman Wabayi.
He said the 13-year-old girl (name withheld) was recently sent to her grandfather’s homestead in the morning to fetch onions.
“On arrival at her grandfather’s homestead she found him in his bedroom,” said Supt Ngirazi.
He said the grandfather invited the minor into the bedroom so she could get the onions.
“When she entered the bedroom the accused grabbed her by the waist, laid her on the bed and raped her once. She screamed, drawing the attention of her grandmother,” said Supt Ngirazi.
He said on hearing the girl screaming the grandmother asked what was happening.
“The man ran out of the bedroom hut saying he did not know what was happening and why she was screaming,” said Supt Ngirazi.
He said the girl went home and reported the matter to her mother, who in turn made a report to the police, leading to the arrest of the grandfather.
“The girl was taken to St Lukes Hospital for medical examination and treatment,” said Supt Ngirazi.
He said what was shocking was the fact that the crime was committed by the grandfather.
“In the past such things never used to happen, it was taboo for parents to sleep with their children,” said Supt Ngirazi.
He issued a stern warning to would-be rapists that the long arm of the law would soon catch up with them.
“We want to warn members of the public that anyone found on the wrong side of the law will be arrested and brought before the courts for trial.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter