Serial rapist targets elderly in Matebeleland

A 27-year-old serial rapist who had been terrorizing communities in Matebeleland South, particularly targeting elderly women, has been convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison following a successful police operation aided by local residents.

Talent Moyo was recently apprehended and dragged before the courts where he was found guilty of multiple counts of rape. His arrest brought relief to the affected communities, who had been living in fear due to his string of sexual assaults.

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, commended the residents of Makhulela and Dupute villages, under the Madhlambuzi policing area, for their collaboration with the police in bringing the perpetrator to justice.

"The ZRP commends the public in Makhulela, Dupute under the Madhlambuzi policing area for their cooperation and collaboration with the police, which led to the arrest of serial rapist Talent Moyo," said Commissioner Nyathi.

Moyo's reign of terror had caused widespread panic and psychological trauma among vulnerable members of the community, particularly elderly women who were targeted in his attacks.

Commissioner Nyathi urged citizens across the country to take an active role in crime prevention by participating in the ZRP's Community Policing structures.

"The police continue to encourage members of the public to join our Community Policing structures to assist in the maintenance of law and order," he said.

Moyo will serve an effective 15-year sentence behind bars as part of efforts to ensure justice for the victims and to deter similar crimes in the future.