Police Officers struggled at Entumbane Police Station officers experienced a tumultuous evening when an undressed woman, a victim of assault, sought refuge in their charge office. The event unfolded on the night of Sunday, 14 January, creating an atmosphere of both shock and urgency among the law enforcement personnel.
The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed for her safety, had undergone a harrowing ordeal. An unknown assailant had brutally attacked her, subjecting her to physical and sexual abuse. The attacker, after demanding money, dragged her to a secluded area, where he threatened her with a stabbing. Despite her resistance, the assailant overpowered her, forcibly fondling her and then fleeing with her clothes, leaving her exposed and vulnerable.
In a desperate bid for safety, the woman, propelled by fear and determination, managed to escape and ran towards the police station. Her unexpected and distressing appearance initially stunned the officers on duty. There was initial apprehension and disbelief, as some officers mistook her for a disturbed individual, possibly under supernatural influence.
However, as the reality of the situation dawned on them, the officers shifted rapidly from shock to action. They provided her with clothes and attentively listened to her account of the incident. Her eloquent and detailed narration of the ordeal enabled the police to understand the gravity of the situation and to start an immediate investigation.
The Bulawayo police spokesperson, Inspector Abednico Ncube, confirmed the incident and expressed concern over the safety of individuals using footpaths, especially at night. He highlighted the increasing number of crimes occurring in such areas and strongly advised the public to avoid them to reduce the risk of similar attacks.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of public safety, particularly for women, and the crucial role of police stations as sanctuaries for those in distress. The officers’ eventual response in providing aid and support to the victim serves as a reminder of the essential humanitarian aspect of police work.- state media