Increase in rape cases irks police

THE Midlands Province has recorded an increase in rape cases in the first three months of the year compared to the same period last year.

Acting police spokesperson for Midlands Province Assistant Inspector Ethel Mukwende said what was worrying about the statistics was that most of the victims were minors.

“As the police, we have noted with great concern the increase in rape cases, especially those involving juveniles, throughout the Midlands Province,” she said.

“Statistics gathered for the period January to March this year, indicate that there is an increase of rape cases.”

Asst Insp Mukwende said the province recorded 111 cases of rape perpetrated against women and minors between January and March, as compared to last year’s 102 cases.

She said what was also more worrying was that most of the victims were raped by their relatives.

“The cases occurred both in rural areas and most of them were committed by people who are familiar to the victims while some were committed by strangers,” said Asst Insp Mukwende

She said police were conducting awareness campaigns in communities on the sentences for such crimes.

“We are also appealing to parents to avoid exposing their children to abuse,” said Asst Insp Mukwende.

“They should always make sure that their children are left with responsible guardians.”