I’M VERY SORRY!. . . Kombi driver says he never meant to belittle the crime of rape . . . Issues an apology and asks for forgiveness after fierce backlash

A KOMBI driver, who provoked a fierce backlash when he appeared to justify rape by blaming how some women dress, has APOLOGISED for his comments.

Shadreck Sinyoro’s remarks, which were captured by H-Metro, went viral on social media.

The video attracted thousands of comments on our social media platforms and also became the subject of discussions on local radio shows.

The dominant message in the feedback was that Sinyoro’s views were unacceptable and a shameless attack.

Many said Sinyoro was belittling the serious crime of rape.

His comments were also deemed unfortunate as they were given against the background of the rape of a Grade 7 pupil by a tout in the Harare CBD area.

The suspected rapist Givemore Mutape, 25, has since appeared in court and was remanded in custody.

H-Metro readers slammed Sinyoro’s comments and they also criticised his fellow kombi drivers and conductors who were supporting his views in the background.

Sinyoro said he was very sorry.

“I am the one who had a video posted by H-Metro and shared to other sites,” he said.

“I would like to apologise to everyone that has seen my video circulating on social media.

“It wasn’t my aim to damage anyone or condone the cruel incident that happened to the girl some time ago.

“I understand that a good number of people may have missed the point but my main emphasis was on parents and guardians.

“It is our primary responsibility to monitor and protect our children, especially when they are going out, without the supervision of an adult.

“It is our care and responsibility to look out for what those youngsters will be putting on.”

He added:

“The streets are not safe so, if such incidents occur when they are accompanied by an adult person, this situation may be contained before it gets out of hand.

“May you please accept my heartfelt apology to all the victims of rape and the Zimbabwean community, I am sorry for the damage that I have caused.”