Rape cases decline in Matabeleland South

MATABELELAND South has recorded 165 rape cases between January and August, a decline compared to 190 cases during the same period last year.

In an interview on Friday, the provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Christopher Ngwenya, attributed the  decline to their intensified awareness campaigns.

"Last year, we handled 190 rape cases between January and August, while this year during the same period we had a decline when we recorded 165 cases.

"As police we have embarked on awareness campaigns across the province targeting mostly rural communities and that has contributed to the significant drop in rape cases, although we are still worried about the figures," he said.

Asst Insp Ngwenya said the highest number since the beginning of the year was recorded in March when they handled 29 cases.

The least number so far was recorded in July with 16 rape cases reported.

Asst Insp Ngwenya said a majority of the cases involved juveniles and urged local communities to complement police in the fight against the  criminal  trend.

"We are conducting anti-rape awareness programmes throughout the province conscientising and educating communities on rape issues and so far we have covered Beitbridge, Bulilima, Mangwe and Gwanda districts.

"We also urge parents to play a leading  role and complement our efforts in the fight against rape, particularly taking  into consideration that most cases are perpetrated against juveniles," he said.

The campaigns are being co-ordinated by the police Victim Friendly Unit.