Chitungwiza Man Alleges Sexual Assault and Robbery by Three Women After Boarding Mushikashika Taxi

HARARE — A 45-year-old man from Chitungwiza allegedly became the victim of a sexual assault and robbery after being lured into a suspected illegal mushikashika taxi while travelling from Harare to Chitungwiza on Sunday, police have confirmed. The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of commuters using unregistered public transport vehicles operating along major routes in Harare and Chitungwiza.

According to police, the complainant boarded a blue Honda Fit in Harare's central business district, believing the vehicle was operating as a commuter taxi to Chitungwiza. The vehicle allegedly had a male driver and three female passengers on board. Police said that during the journey, the women began making unwanted sexual advances towards the complainant. Investigators allege the suspects unzipped the man's trousers and attempted to seduce him while the vehicle was still in motion.

Upon reaching the corner of Seke Road and Delport Road, the driver reportedly pulled the vehicle off the road. Police allege that two of the women then took turns engaging in sexual acts with the complainant without his consent. The incident is being treated as a serious sexual offence and robbery case. Investigators reportedly recovered condoms believed to have been used during the incident. The exhibits allegedly contained semen and are expected to form part of the forensic evidence in the ongoing investigation.

Following the alleged assault, the suspects reportedly stole the complainant's Samsung cellphone and US$20 cash. Police say the victim was then forced out of the vehicle before the suspects drove away towards Chitungwiza. The complainant subsequently reported the matter to the authorities.

Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the case and said investigations are currently underway.

"The complainant was referred to Chitungwiza Central Hospital for medical examinations," said Insp Chakanza.

Police have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the incident.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has urged members of the public to exercise caution when using unregistered transport services, warning that illegal mushikashika vehicles have increasingly been linked to robberies, kidnappings, assaults and other criminal activities. Authorities are encouraging commuters to use registered public transport operators and to verify vehicles before boarding, particularly when travelling at night or in isolated areas. Police have appealed to anyone with information that may assist in identifying the suspects or locating the vehicle involved to report to the nearest police station. The investigation remains ongoing.

Chitungwiza man sexually assaulted in mushikashika taxi