By Tinotenda Hove

A 47-year-old Zimbabwe Republic Police officer has been sentenced to 21 years in prison for repeatedly raping his Grade 7 daughter .

The officer, who was stationed at the Support Unit, committed the horrific acts at their home, starting in August 2024 when he returned home drunk and forced himself on his daughter. He threatened her not to report the matter, but the abuse continued into January 2025, when he fondled her and expressed further desires to be intimate with her.

The assault was interrupted by the arrival of the girl’s stepmother, but the officer intimidated his daughter into silence. Fortunately, the young girl found the courage to confide in her friends and a teacher at school, who helped her report the abuse.

A medical examination confirmed the violations, leading to the officer’s arrest and conviction.

The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe described the incident as a “shocking betrayal of trust” and highlighted the need for continued efforts to combat gender-based violence and protect children, especially within families.