Silence, delays haunt 8-year-old Girl’s abuse case

Blessing Ticha Karubwa

THREE weeks after explosive allegations ofBlessing Ticha Karubwa
THREE weeks after explosive allegations of sexual abuse rocked Yacobe Village in Mberengwa, the eight-year-old girl at the centre of the storm remains without confirmed police intervention, while her mother says she is losing hope in the system meant to protect her child.
The matter first came to light on 19 February when allegations surfaced that the minor had been sexually violated by her stepbrothers, aged 10 and 15, while under the care of her father, Xolani Dennis Sithole.
The child’s mother, Grace Moyo, who is based in South Africa, alleged that after raising alarm she was denied access to her daughter and that her ex-husband threatened those attempting to intervene.
A week later, the family said the case had been reported to police but no case reference number had been issued.
They described a string of explanations, officers said to be away on a course, promises to attend that did not materialise, and assurances that records were still being verified.
Now, entering a third week of public scrutiny, the mother says the silence is unbearable.
“They said yesterday but still no updates. It feels like justice is failing me and I am worried about the condition my child might be going through because the guy cut all my access to my child,” she said.
This publication contacted police Midlands police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, seeking clarity on steps taken so far, challenges encountered, and measures implemented to safeguard the child.
Inspector Mahoko requested the complainant’s contact details, saying he wished to speak to them directly.
After the details were provided and further questions were posed regarding progress, he responded: “Will have to hear from the station for the position of the case.”
By the time of going to print, police had not confirmed whether a docket had been opened, whether the minor had undergone a medical examination, or whether any protective action had been taken.
The continued absence of clear procedural confirmation has intensified concern within the family and community.
Earlier attempts by local social welfare representatives to secure medical attention reportedly stalled amid disputes over consent and logistical challenges. Community leaders acknowledged awareness of the issue but deferred to social workers and law enforcement.
For the mother watching from across the border, each passing day deepens her anxiety.
“I just want my child safe and for the law to take its course,” she said.
As authorities indicate they are still consulting station records, the family says what they are waiting for is not paperwork, but visible action in a case involving a vulnerable child. rocked Yacobe Village in Mberengwa, the eight-year-old girl at the centre of the storm remains without confirmed police intervention, while her mother says she is losing hope in the system meant to protect her child.

The matter first came to light on 19 February when allegations surfaced that the minor had been sexually violated by her stepbrothers, aged 10 and 15, while under the care of her father, Xolani Dennis Sithole.

The child’s mother, Grace Moyo, who is based in South Africa, alleged that after raising alarm she was denied access to her daughter and that her ex-husband threatened those attempting to intervene.

A week later, the family said the case had been reported to police but no case reference number had been issued.

They described a string of explanations, officers said to be away on a course, promises to attend that did not materialise, and assurances that records were still being verified.

Now, entering a third week of public scrutiny, the mother says the silence is unbearable.

“They said yesterday but still no updates. It feels like justice is failing me and I am worried about the condition my child might be going through because the guy cut all my access to my child,” she said.

This publication contacted police Midlands police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, seeking clarity on steps taken so far, challenges encountered, and measures implemented to safeguard the child.

Inspector Mahoko requested the complainant’s contact details, saying he wished to speak to them directly.

After the details were provided and further questions were posed regarding progress, he responded:

“Will have to hear from the station for the position of the case.”

By the time of going to print, police had not confirmed whether a docket had been opened, whether the minor had undergone a medical examination, or whether any protective action had been taken.

The continued absence of clear procedural confirmation has intensified concern within the family and community.

Earlier attempts by local social welfare representatives to secure medical attention reportedly stalled amid disputes over consent and logistical challenges. Community leaders acknowledged awareness of the issue but deferred to social workers and law enforcement.

For the mother watching from across the border, each passing day deepens her anxiety.
“I just want my child safe and for the law to take its course,” she said.

As authorities indicate they are still consulting station records, the family says what they are waiting for is not paperwork, but visible action in a case involving a vulnerable child.