Police raise alarm over rape cases among relatives

Police in Harare have expressed growing concern over an increase in rape and sexual abuse cases involving relatives, warning that cramped living conditions in high-density suburbs are putting children at greater risk.

Authorities say the trend is particularly prevalent in communities where large families are forced to share one- or two-roomed accommodation, creating environments that expose minors to potential abuse.

Superintendent Absalm Mukavhi, the second officer responsible for crime in Mbare District, said the situation has become alarming and is being worsened by underreporting.

Speaking during an awareness campaign held in Madhirihora and Musasa Retreat in Waterfalls, Mukavhi urged residents to report cases and avoid concealing offenders.

"We are concerned about an increase in rape cases involving relatives, as well as sexual abuse of minor children and robbery cases," he said, citing concerns raised by Harare provincial police leadership.

He referenced Maxwell Chikunguru, Officer Commanding Harare Province, and district commander Runwell Chipfurutse, who have both flagged the surge in such crimes.

Mukavhi noted that new residential settlements, where families often share limited space to cut costs, are emerging as hotspots for abuse.

"These setups, where adults and children of different sexes share sleeping spaces, increase vulnerability," he said.

Police also raised concern over cases being settled informally within families, with some relatives allegedly accepting money or valuables in exchange for silence, allowing perpetrators to evade justice.

"The purpose of this campaign is to encourage reporting and to ensure offenders are brought to book," Mukavhi said.

He urged communities to take preventive measures, including separating sleeping arrangements where possible and strengthening communication between parents and children.

During the campaign, officers from the Victim Friendly Unit and Community Relations Liaison section encouraged guardians to build trust with minors so they feel safe to report abuse. Residents were also advised to foster stronger neighbourhood networks to improve community monitoring, especially when parents are away.

Police say tackling the issue will require collective action, warning that failure to report abuse not only shields offenders but also puts more children at risk.