Theresa Zibowa

MIRROR REPORTER

CHIKOMBA-A 42-year-old Chivhu man’s two-week freedom was short-lived after he was arrested for allegedly raping his 16-year-old daughter on January 18, 2023.

Kennias Machirika popularly known as Marumanjanji of D section in Chivhu was released from prison two weeks ago after serving his eight-year sentence for armed robbery.

Mashonaland East Police spokesperson, Simon Chazovachiyi, confirmed the incident to The Mirror.

It is alleged that on January 15, 2023, the complainant was doing dishes in the kitchen when the accused come from behind and slapped her buttocks and hugged her. The complainant pushed him away and went out of the room.

On January 16, 2023 at around 10 am the complainant was preparing breakfast and the accused asked the complainant to kiss him but she refused. Machirika then used force and dragged the complainant to a bed and raped her once. He threatened to kill her if she ever discloses the matter to anyone.

Again on the January 18, 2023 in the morning the accused grabbed the complainant by the hand and dragged her to the bed and had raped her. After the act the accused person gave a dollar to the complaint but she refused.

The accused person then went out and the complainant sent a message to her sister who lives in Chivhu town telling her about the sexual abuse. The complainant was then accompanied by her sister and reported the matter at Chivhu Police Station leading to the arrest of  the accused person.

Chazovachiyi appealed to members of the public not to trust anyone when it comes to matters of sexual abuse.

“We urge members of the public to quickly report rape cases so that the victim can immediately get assistance. We are also warning the public against trusting relatives irrespective of the degree of relationship. Anyone is a potential abuser,” said Chazovachiyi.