Mushikashika operator rapes woman passenger, runs ...

Mushikashika operator rapes woman passenger, runs away leaving car, ID

Zim Now Writer

Police in Gokwe, Midlands Province are looking for an illegal taxi operator who raped a female passenger after the vehicle developed a mechanical fault.

Simbarashe Bhobho, 32, reportedly ran away, abandoning the vehicle and the female passenger after he forced himself on her.

The woman had boarded the Honda Fit vehicle intending to travel from Bomba Business Centre to Gokwe Centre along the Kwekwe-Gokwe Highway.

Midlands provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, confirmed the incident saying after committing the crime, the driver ran away, leaving the victim and the vehicle behind.

“On 26 March around 9pm, Simbarashe Bhobho, 32, of Village Chigoyo under Chief Magonde in Makonde was driving a Honda Fit, registration number AEP3726 and gave a lift to a female passenger aged 22,” said Inspector Mahoko.

Insp Mahoko said that on approaching the 130-kilometre peg along the way, the vehicle ran out of fuel. After refuelling, the car developed a mechanical problem and could not start.

“Bhobho suggested that they wait for assistance from other passing motorists. As they were waiting, Bhobho raped the passenger and ran away, leaving the motor vehicle and identification particulars behind,” said Inspector Mahoko.

The vehicle was towed to Gokwe Police Station.

“We appeal to members of the public for assistance in the investigation of this matter by supplying any information that they may have concerning the incident to approach the nearest police station,” Insp Mahoko said.