Police in Eastern Province have launched a manhunt for a Chama District man accused of allegedly raping a 20-year-old woman who had attended a birthday celebration.
According to Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba, the incident is alleged to have occurred on June 5, 2026, in Chama’s Makeni B Compound.
Police say the victim had attended her elder sister’s birthday party on the evening of June 4, where celebrations reportedly continued until the early hours of June 5. During the event, the woman is said to have consumed alcohol before falling asleep in the living room of the house.
Mr. Mweemba stated that at around 8:00 hours, a man identified as Isungeni Zimba allegedly visited the residence. It is alleged that while other occupants were asleep, the suspect entered the house and sexually assaulted the woman while she was asleep.
The victim reportedly woke up during the incident and recognized the suspect. Police say she resisted and managed to free herself before the suspect fled the scene.
The matter was reported to Chama Police Station later that day, prompting the launch of investigations and a search for the suspect, who remains at large.
Mr. Mweemba has appealed to members of the public with information that may assist in locating the suspect to report to the nearest police station.
Police have since reiterated the importance of reporting all cases of sexual violence and encouraged victims and witnesses to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.
Source: TV Yatu