Harare Man Arrested Over Alleged Rape, Kidnapping, and Arson Attack in Dzivarasekwa Extension

HARARE — Police have arrested a man from Dzivarasekwa Extension in Harare in connection with allegations of rape, kidnapping, assault, and arson following a violent attack on a neighbouring couple. The suspect, identified by police as Godwilson Manake, allegedly attacked the couple at their home during the early hours of Wednesday morning before abducting the woman, whose whereabouts remain unknown.

According to police investigations, Manake had allegedly been making romantic advances towards his neighbour’s wife for some time, but his approaches were repeatedly rejected. Police allege that at around 2 am, Manake broke into the couple’s cabin while they were asleep and launched an attack. Investigators say he allegedly assaulted the husband with a chain, forcing him to flee from the room. The suspect then allegedly turned his attention to the woman, whom he is accused of raping before setting the cabin on fire.

Authorities allege that after the assault, the suspect set the structure ablaze, destroying household property valued at approximately US$500. Police further allege that Manake then forcibly took the woman from the scene and dragged her to a nearby bushy area. The woman has not yet been located, prompting an ongoing police search operation.

Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the arrest and said investigations were continuing.

“Police arrested a Dzivarasekwa Extension man for multiple cases that include assault, kidnapping and malicious damage to property,” said Chakanza.

He added that efforts to locate the missing woman were underway.

“The husband was referred to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals for medical attention. The total value of property destroyed is estimated at US$500 and nothing has been recovered,” Chakanza said.

The case has sent shockwaves through the Dzivarasekwa community, with residents expressing concern over the violent nature of the alleged offences.

Police have appealed to members of the public with information that could assist in locating the missing woman to come forward and report to the nearest police station. The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to appear in court facing charges related to assault, kidnapping, rape, and malicious damage to property. Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue. The incident highlights growing concerns over gender-based violence and crimes against women in Zimbabwe, with advocacy groups continuing to call for stronger protection measures and swift prosecution of offenders.

Dzivarasekwa kidnapping and rape case