Girl raped by aunt's boyfriend

A BULAWAYO man is behind bars after he allegedly raped his lover's 17-year-old niece who had visited him to do laundry for a small fee.

Police have confirmed the arrest of Edson Zaeko (56) of Southwold in connection with the disturbing case which occurred on 4 October around 8AM.

Bulawayo deputy police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu, in a statement, said the girl had gone to Zaeko's house to wash clothes - a chore she regularly did for $5. However, on 4 October Zaeko turned into a monster.

"After finishing the piece job, the complainant was expecting to be paid her $5 as usual. The accused person started caressing her, pushed her onto the bed, removed her clothes and raped her," said Asst Insp Ndlovu.

After the assault, Zaeko allegedly gave the girl $10 and dropped her off at her home, pretending as if nothing had happened. The teenager later gathered the courage to report the incident on 9 October, leading to Zaeko's swift arrest.

Police have since used the case to remind families to be more vigilant about who interacts with their children.

"We urge members of the public, especially parents and guardians, to exercise great caution regarding who they entrust with their girl children," said Asst Insp Ndlovu. "We also warn those who violate children that they will be hunted down and brought to justice."

The police continue to encourage victims of sexual violence to report abuse immediately, assuring them of protection and confidentiality.