Two Harare Men Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault of Girl at Knifepoint

Two men in Harare have been arrested for allegedly assaulting a 14-year-old girl at knifepoint (image source)

Two men have been arrested in Harare for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl at knifepoint after luring her into their apartment, in a case that has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stronger child protection laws.

The suspects, Shepherd Tinoziva (47) and Savior Chiseko (30), reportedly locked the girl inside their flat and threatened her with a knife before committing the assault. The incident was confirmed by Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza.

“Police arrested two suspects for raping a juvenile,” Chakanza said. “The complainant developed wounds and disclosed the rape to her mother.”

The victim was taken to the Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Poly Clinic for medical examination. Authorities say the suspects will face charges under Zimbabwe’s Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which prescribes severe penalties for sexual offences against minors.

Zimbabwe has seen a surge in gender-based violence (GBV), with over 7,000 cases reported in 2024, according to the Zimbabwe Gender Commission. Experts cite economic stress, social disintegration, and weak enforcement as contributing factors.

“We need to strengthen community awareness and legal enforcement,” said GBV advocate Rudo Mupambwa. “Too many cases go unreported or unresolved.”

Police investigations are ongoing. Child rights organisations have called for psychological support for the victim and swift prosecution of the suspects. The case adds urgency to national efforts to combat sexual violence and protect vulnerable populations.