Harare – Police in Harare have launched a manhunt for Vision Makichi, a 31-year-old man from Highfield, who is on the run after allegedly raping his 16-year-old maid. The incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for the protection of vulnerable domestic workers.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the case and appealed to the public for any information that may lead to Makichi’s arrest.
“Police are investigating a rape case involving an employer and his maid,” said Insp Chakanza.
According to police reports, the alleged rape occurred in the afternoon while Makichi’s wife was at work. The complainant, who was caring for a nine-month-old baby at the time, was reportedly asleep in her room when Makichi returned home.
“The accused person returned home and found the complainant fast asleep in her room. The accused entered the room and raped her,” Insp Chakanza stated.
Following the alleged assault, Makichi reportedly pleaded with the complainant not to disclose the incident to anyone.
“After the act the accused begged the complainant not to tell anyone about his deeds. He promised to do anything for her if she kept the secret,” Insp Chakanza added.
The complainant subsequently confided in her aunt, who then referred her to the Family Support Clinic at Sally Mugabe Hospital for medical examinations.
The incident has brought into sharp focus the vulnerability of domestic workers, particularly young girls, who often face exploitation and abuse at the hands of their employers. The police are urging anyone with information regarding Makichi’s whereabouts to come forward and assist with the investigation.
This case comes on the heels of another recent incident in Kwekwe, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by domestic workers in Zimbabwe. Just weeks ago, a 31-year-old woman from Mbizo, Kwekwe, was convicted of assault after she brutally attacked her maid, accusing her of having an affair with her husband.
In a statement released by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the woman, Hazvinei Tswangira, appeared before the Kwekwe Magistrates’ Court on assault charges following the incident.
“The accused, Hazvinei Tswangira, violently attacked her maid, repeatedly striking her on the face and right shoulder with both her fists and an electric cable. The incident was reported to the authorities, resulting in Tswangira’s arrest,” the statement read.
The attack allegedly stemmed from Tswangira’s suspicions that her maid was involved in an affair with her husband, a claim that led to the violent outburst.
The court sentenced Tswangira to pay a fine of US$250 or face 60 days in prison. Additionally, she was given a wholly suspended 3-month imprisonment sentence.
The police are urging anyone with information about the Highfield rape case to contact their nearest police station. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are determined to bring Vision Makichi to justice.
