Harare, Zimbabwe – A 21-year-old woman's desperate search for employment ended in a horrifying ordeal on Friday when she was gang-raped and robbed after being lured to central Harare under the false pretense of a job interview.
The incident highlights a grave danger facing job seekers and underscores the need for extreme caution when responding to unsolicited offers.
"Police are investigating a rape and robbery case. The complainant was referred to Parirenyatwa Hospital for medical examinations," said Insp Chakanza. As of the time of publication, no arrests had been announced in connection with the crime.
Upon her arrival at the agreed meeting point, the corner of Robson Manyika and Angwa Street, the victim found the two suspects waiting in a silver Honda Fit. Unaware of the imminent danger, she entered the vehicle and sat beside the man identifying himself as Anthony.
Anthony then instructed his accomplice to drive the vehicle towards Chitungwiza, under the deceptive guise of needing to discuss the purported job offer in a more private setting.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has previously issued warnings to the public regarding the dangers associated with job hunting through informal channels like WhatsApp, following similar ordeals faced by other individuals, including a woman in Chitungwiza.
The police are urging anyone with information that may assist in locating the suspects to immediately contact their nearest police station.
Police Confirm Incident, Investigation Underway
Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the horrific incident to H-Metro, stating that authorities are actively investigating the case.![]() |
Horror in Harare: Woman Gang Raped and Robbed After Fake Job Interview Lure |
Job Promise Turns into Abduction and Assault
According to the police report, the victim was initially contacted by two men. One of the suspects identified himself as "Anthony" and claimed that the young woman had been shortlisted for an accountant position. They arranged to meet in the Harare Central Business District (CBD) at approximately 3 PM.Upon her arrival at the agreed meeting point, the corner of Robson Manyika and Angwa Street, the victim found the two suspects waiting in a silver Honda Fit. Unaware of the imminent danger, she entered the vehicle and sat beside the man identifying himself as Anthony.
Anthony then instructed his accomplice to drive the vehicle towards Chitungwiza, under the deceptive guise of needing to discuss the purported job offer in a more private setting.
Robbery and Gang Rape Along Seke Road
Once the vehicle reached an isolated spot along Seke Road, the men's true intentions became terrifyingly clear. They turned on the victim, demanding that she hand over her iPhone and the US$2 she carried in her wallet. After robbing her, the two suspects then took turns raping her inside the parked car, reportedly without protection. Following the assault, they abandoned her by the roadside and fled the scene.The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has previously issued warnings to the public regarding the dangers associated with job hunting through informal channels like WhatsApp, following similar ordeals faced by other individuals, including a woman in Chitungwiza.
Appeal for Vigilance and Information
In light of this heinous crime, authorities have reiterated their urgent appeal for job seekers to exercise extreme caution. They strongly advise individuals to thoroughly verify the legitimacy of any unsolicited job offers or interview invitations before proceeding.The police are urging anyone with information that may assist in locating the suspects to immediately contact their nearest police station.