Police bust brothel run by 15 teenage women

POLICE in Plumtree have shut down an illegal brothel allegedly being operated by teenagers, including under-age girls, in Mathendele Township following complaints from residents and concerned spouses.

Seven female teenagers were arrested during a police raid conducted last week, while several others reportedly escaped.

Authorities said the girls, aged between 14 and 19, are believed to have come from surrounding rural areas including Ndolwane, Matjinge, Tshitshi, Macingwana and iZimnyama.

The group was reportedly operating from an unfinished house in Plumtree's Ward 1.

The owner of the property, who is based in South Africa, is believed to have been unaware of the activities taking place at the premises.

Residents said the brothel had become popular among some married men in the area, prompting several women to report the matter to police.

One resident described growing frustration within the community over the activities at the house.

"These girls also attracted criminals to the area. They lived at a house with no roof, running water or any other amenities," said the resident.

Community members also complained about frequent disturbances at the premises.

"Disputes with boyfriends frequently erupted and obscene noises rang through the night, disrupting the peace and making it difficult for neighbours to sleep," another resident said.

A visit to the house reportedly revealed unhygienic conditions, including used condoms and piles of litter scattered around the property.

Following the raid, police conducted an outreach programme in the area to educate residents on crime prevention and community safety.

Residents thanked authorities for intervening, saying previous attempts by locals to confront the teenagers had failed.

"They were so foul-mouthed we ended up being afraid to speak to them," said one community member.

Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Chiratidzo Dube confirmed the arrests.

"There were seven girls arrested, two being juveniles and five adults aged between 18 and 19 years old," said Insp Dube.

"The girls are paying rent to a relative of the owner of the house who is in South Africa.

"Police are still investigating the issue and the Social Welfare Department has been appraised."

Authorities have not yet indicated what charges may be brought as investigations continue.