Increase rape sentences to 40 years, police boss

Munyaradzi Musiiwa Midlands Correspondent
POLICE have called on the judiciary to increase the mandatory sentence for rape to more than 40 years from nine years in the wake of increasing rape cases most of which involve minors.
Speaking during a belated Midlands police Christmas party in Gweru recently, Deputy Commissioner General Levi Sibanda said rape cases in the country had increased by 16 percent in 2014 compared to 2013.
He said most rape cases reported to the police involved minors below the age of five.

Dep Comm-Gen Sibanda called on the judiciary to impose lengthy custodial sentences on rape offenders.
“It is disheartening to note that crimes of concern such as rape increased by 16 percent. I am particularly worried that most of the victims in these cases are juveniles. The situation has gone so bad and we are glad that Members of Parliament, particularly female members speak about this in Parliament.

“We support women who call for lengthy custodial sentences on rape offenders. We want the mandatory sentence of rape to be 40 years,” he said.

Minister Oppah Muchinguri once called on the Government to consider chemical castration of rape offenders.
Dep Comm-Gen Sibanda said the Midlands had recorded a decrease in cases of crime last year compared to 2013.

“Let me encourage you to continue with your commitment and dedication to work that has culminated in the general reduction of crime by nine percent to 29 455 cases recorded last year from 32 448 recorded in 2013,” he said.

Dep Comm-Gen Sibanda said the police were intensifying the crackdown on corrupt officers and individuals. He said no one will be spared despite political or social status.

“May I take this opportunity to remind police officers that the organisation upholds discipline and deplores corruption.

“Once you engage in corruption, be wary that you will inevitably erode public confidence. ZRP does not condone corruption within its rank and file. Let me warn rogue elements that if you indulge in corruption the long arm of the law will certainly catch up with you,” he said.