Police warn of indecent assault

Arron Nyamayaro

POLICE are urging people to closely monitor children and to report any suspicious criminal activities within their communities.

In a media statement, Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, noted with concern how young people are being abused by neighbours and relatives.

His call follows the arrest of Nelson Muchuchu, 28, of Unit E in Seke for allegedly kidnapping and sodomising a 16-year-old boy for three days.

“Police have noted with concern the abuse of young children by people close to their families,” said Insp Chakanza.

“Criminals are using unsuspecting modus operandi to commit aggravated indecent assault to young people.

“On December 26, a report of aggravated indecent assault was reported at Zengeza Police Station.

“The complainant and the accused are not related, but the latter is a friend to the neighbour of the complainant’s mother.

“On December 21 at around 2pm, the complainant was at Unit H shopping centre in Chitungwiza. He was approached by the accused person to assist him carry his goods from Unit H to Mbare Musika and he agreed.”

He said when they got to Muchuchu’s house, the boy was taken into a bedroom and locked inside.

“The accused person returned at around 10pm and entered the bedroom armed with a hammer and wrestled with the complainant who was fighting against being sexually assaulted.

“He was assaulted with open hands and further threatened with a hammer if he made any noise and he gave in,” said Insp Chakanza.

He said the boy was sexually assaulted several times for three days before his mother learnt from neighbours that her son was last seen in the company of Muchuchu.

The mother broke down the door at Muchuchu’s house and found her son.

Muchuchu was arrested and appeared at the Chitungwiza Magistrates’ Court where he was remanded in custody awaiting trial.