Incest, child rape cases irk chiefs

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CHIEFS in Nkayi District of Matabeleland North Province have expressed concern over the increase in the number of child rape and incest cases in the district, saying they handle nearly 20 such cases every month.

CHIEFS in Nkayi District of Matabeleland North Province have expressed concern over the increase in the number of child rape and incest cases in the district, saying they handle nearly 20 such cases every month.

BY MELODY CHIMHAU

Chiefs Sikhobokhobo and Dakamela told Southern Eye that paedophiles had become common and brought shame to their district.

Chief Sikhobokhobo said he had presided over 10 cases this month alone.

“It is sad that almost every month I have to deal with these cases. This month only I presided over 10 cases where young girls were raped by their fathers and the police are reluctant to deal with perpetrators of these inhuman acts.

“A few weeks ago, I attended a case where a 13-year-old girl was impregnated by her father,” Chief Sikhobokhobo said.

“When I approached the police they delayed and the culprit escaped.

“I had to give the young girl some money to go to the hospital for a medical check-up.”

Chief Sikhobokhobo appealed to the government to restore their powers in handing down sentences against people implicated in incest and rape cases.

“Our government should restore our powers and as chiefs be able to rule on these cases on time.

“These girls are not being protected by their fathers and as a chief, I have taken a step to protect them,” he said.

“We need unity to fight this problem. If I report the cases the police should react on time to catch the culprits.”

Chief Dakamela echoed the same sentiments and accused the police of being reluctant to deal with some sexual offences.

“In some cases we have mothers helping fathers in raping their daughters for riches, this is uncalled for,” he said.

“I reported 15 cases concerning such rapes, but nothing was done.

“Not even half of them were caught and they are still a danger to the society as they are walking freely.”

The complaints by the chiefs come amid calls for tough sentences on child rapists.

Matabeleland North police spokesperson, Inspector Siphiwe Makonese could not be reached for comment.

Chief Sikhobokhobo blamed prophets and traditional leaders for fuelling the practice, after giving instructions to clients to rape children to get rich or be healed of incurable diseases such as Aids.

“People tend to believe these fake traditional healers and prophets and follow instructions they are given,” he said.

“In our culture the father-daughter bond has been destroyed and it is quite disturbing.

“We need stiffer and deterrent sentences for fathers raping their daughters.”

Sikhobokhobo added: “The mothers should also take action when it comes to protecting their daughters.”