The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has reportedly uncovered a network of over 1,000 individuals involved in same-sex relationships in Harare, operating through a WhatsApp group known as “Private Lounge.”
This discovery followed the arrest of a 25-year-old man and a teenager in Highfield, who were allegedly involved in such a relationship. The man, employed at a local supermarket in New Canaan, and the teenager, a Form Four student from Glen Norah B Extension, are said to have connected through the online group.
The teenager had joined the WhatsApp group earlier in the year, seeking companionship, and later met the older man in person. Their interactions were brought to light when the teenager’s father discovered romantic messages exchanged between the two.
The revelation of this network has ignited intense public discourse in Zimbabwe, where same-sex relationships remain illegal and highly stigmatized.
The arrest of the two individuals has raised concerns about how widespread this phenomenon might be.
Many women, in particular, are left questioning the fidelity of their partners amid growing suspicions that some men might be secretly involved in such relationships.
The unease has also brought the issue of online platforms being used for discreet connections under greater scrutiny.
Meanwhile, the incident has reignited the debate surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the country, as well as the legal and social ramifications for those involved.
Reactions on Social Media ;
Rue Masango
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Brendon Chiutsa
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ClassyMwazharian
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Antoneta Chakwana
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