A 23-year-old Zimbabwean woman, residing in South Africa but visiting Harare for her birthday, was subjected to a horrific ordeal when she was raped in her Highlands home.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of 25 January 2025, has cast a dark shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion.
The woman had celebrated her birthday with friends and family, and retired to bed in a state of intoxication, leaving her door unlocked. It was this lapse in security, coupled with her inebriated state, that tragically provided an opportunity for her attacker.
The perpetrator, identified as Takudzwa Kembo, is known to the victim’s family. He is a friend of her sister’s boyfriend. Kembo gained entry to the woman’s bedroom and proceeded to rape her without using protection.
The horrific attack was interrupted when the woman awoke to Kembo's actions. She reacted instinctively, pushing him off the bed, causing him to fall. The commotion startled Kembo, who fled the scene, leaving the victim shaken and traumatised.
The woman, immediately after the assault, screamed for help, alerting those around her to the incident. She was subsequently taken to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals Adult Rape Clinic for medical examinations, a crucial step in the aftermath of such a violent crime. The examinations will provide vital evidence for the ongoing police investigation.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the incident and appealed to the public for assistance in apprehending the suspect. Inspector Chakanza provided details of the incident, stating:
“Police are investigating a rape case involving a woman who was celebrating her birthday. On January 25, 2025, between 0500 hours and 0600 hours the complainant went to sleep after her birthday party. The complainant, who was very drunk, was awoken by the accused’s action. She pushed him away and he fell from the bed. The accused person fled from the crime scene. The complainant was referred to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals Adult Rape Clinic for medical examinations.”
