The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has issued a press statement urging members of the public to report all sexual offences to the police.
The statement, released on February 22, 2024, expressed concern over the prevalence of rape cases involving individuals who are related or known to each other, particularly affecting juveniles and mentally challenged individuals.
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According to the NPAZ, many rape cases prosecuted in Magistrates Courts across the country involve perpetrators who are family members such as fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, brothers, and uncles.
This situation is especially distressing as these are individuals whom victims trust and rely on for protection.
The statement highlighted the regrettable trend of families choosing not to report rape cases involving juveniles and family members to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), opting instead to resolve them at the family or community level.
NPAZ emphasised the importance of reporting all sexual offences, especially those involving vulnerable groups like juveniles and mentally challenged persons, to the ZRP.
In cases where reporting directly to the police is challenging, the statement advised individuals to contact childline on toll-free line 116 or reach out to social workers or school authorities.
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Additionally, all victims of rape, sodomy, or aggravated indecent assault were urged to seek immediate medical attention and HIV testing at the nearest clinic or hospital.
Guardians and parents were reminded to exercise vigilance in entrusting their children’s care to others and to take proactive measures to protect vulnerable individuals from sexual predators.
The NPAZ’s press statement serves as a call to action for the public to play an active role in combating sexual offences and safeguarding the well-being of all members of society.
