Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
RAPE cases involving relatives and neighbours have been rising for the past two months, a senior cop has said.
Assistant Commissioner responsible for crime, Plaxedes Mbira said this yesterday at the ZRP Women Network commemorating International Women’s Day in Chitungwiza.
She noted with concern that 25 percent of rape cases recorded involves relatives urging people not to trust anyone.
“It is with a heavy heart, ladies and gentlemen, that I must bring to your attention a troubling trend that we can no longer ignore, the disturbing increase in crimes of passion against our fellow women and girls.
“Recent reports reveal a staggering 29 percent rise in rape cases, with statistics showing an increase from 140 cases reported between January and February last year to 181 in the same period this year.
“Shockingly, a significant number of these victims are young girls under the age of 16.
“Twenty-five percent of the rapists are relatives, 10.4 percent are neighbours, a stunning 47.6 percent are strangers and 17 percent represent all the other various categories.
“With this in mind, it is crucial for women and girls to be more alert than ever.
“Dear women and girls, I urge you to always be aware of your surroundings and to trust your instincts; choose well-lit and clear paths when traveling at night; and avoid over-trusting anyone, regardless of your relationship with them,” said Ass-Comm Mbira.
She also noted with concern the rise in domestic violence cases involving women and girls.
“It is painful to see how lives, families and hopes are being shattered as a result of this. “Today, we resoundingly say NO to domestic violence and all crimes against women and girls!
“As the Zimbabwe Republic Police, we extend our deepest gratitude to the hospitals and healthcare providers who continually partner with managing cases against women and girls.
“Your tireless efforts in providing medical care and emotional support to victims are invaluable,” said Ass-Comm Mbira.
Speaking at the same event, Emmanuela Mzilikazi of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development said Government has funds to empower women in all communities.
“Empowering women is empowering the nation since we have more women than men,” said Mzilikazi.
“Women Affairs Ministry has funds to help in empowering women as well as funds under Zimbabwe Community Development to assist men and women in their projects.
“We encourage women in all communities to approach the Ministry in groups so as to access the funds.
“Government has noted with concern that a number of women being abused are not working hence the need to empower them so as the girl child. Women’s Bank was opened for you women, to apply loans for some projects so that you move away from depending on men or spouses,” she said.
Mathew Masinge