The Passengers Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) has expressed shock and outrage over the recent rape of a 13-year-old Grade Seven pupil at Rezende rank in Harare’s central business district.
In a statement, the association said it “strongly condemns this heinous act” and extended its heartfelt sympathy and support to the victim and her family during this traumatic time. Reads the statement:
“PAZ emphasises the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and security at all public transport ranks to protect vulnerable passengers, especially children.
“We commend the Harare Provincial police for their prompt response and appeal for information to apprehend the perpetrator.
“We urge all stakeholders including transport operators, rank authorities and law enforcement agencies to work together to create a safe and secure environment for all passengers.
“That is why as PAZ, we are also against tinted windows on kombis, as they can compromise the safety and visibility inside these vehicles, potentially enabling such heinous acts to occur unnoticed.”
PAZ urged parents and guardians to provide adequate transport fare for their children, reducing the need for them to beg or accept lifts from strangers—situations that could expose them to potential risks and harm.
The association said this simple precaution can play a crucial role in protecting children and ensuring their safety while travelling to and from school. PAZ said:
“Let’s have organised transport for our school children. We know that resettlement areas often lack nearby schools and most children commute to school every day, exposed to abuse.
“PAZ remains committed to advocating for the rights and safety of passengers and will continue to work towards ensuring that public transport is safe and respectful for everyone.”
It is alleged that the 13-year-old Grade 7 pupil was raped by a tout in a parked commuter omnibus (kombi) at the Rezende Parkade bus terminus in central Harare.
The incident occurred after the girl had gone into town to collect money at the corner of Leopold Takawira and Jason Moyo.
On her way home, she attempted to board a kombi at Rezende rank but was harassed by touts who blocked her from entering certain vehicles.
One of the touts pretended to be a “good Samaritan” and offered to help her.
He led her to a parked white Toyota Hiace kombi, locked the doors, and raped her once without protection.
After the assault, the perpetrator fled, leaving the traumatized girl inside the vehicle.
The matter only came to light when the girl’s uncle visited her school to inquire about her late return home.
During questioning by a teacher, she disclosed the rape. She was referred to the Adult Rape Clinic at Parirenyatwa Hospital for medical examination.
Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect. Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the incident and appealed to the public for information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrator.
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