A 26-year-old woman of Kitwe’s Riverside area was brutally raped by an armed man on Tuesday November 12, 2024, in a terrifying incident that has left the community shaken.

According to Copperbelt Province Police Commissioner Peacewell Mweemba, the woman, who works as a maid, was attacked while walking home from work around 15:00.

He said a grey vehicle, whose make is unknown, stopped beside her near the CEC Solar Plant, and the driver, accompanied by a friend, offered her a lift.

When she refused, the driver produced a pistol and threatened to kill her if she didn’t get in.

Fearing for her life, the woman entered the vehicle and was taken to a secluded area in Riverside Township, where she was r@ped by the armed suspect while his accomplice waited outside.

The victim sustained painful body injuries due to the force used during the assault.

After the ordeal, the suspect warned the victim not to report the incident to the police, threatening to kill her if she did.

However, she bravely sought help and reported the crime to the Riverside Police Station around 15:30 hours.

Mr Mweemba confirmed that a medical report was issued, and the victim received medical attention.

Police visited the scene of the crime but have yet to make any arrests.

The police are urging anyone with information about the incident or the suspects to come forward and assist in the investigation.

“This heinous crime will not be taken lightly, and we will do everything in our power to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Mr Mweemba assured.