Authorities in Harare believe that 18-year-old Angelista Charama fled the country after being detained during a police raid on a private gathering in the Waterfalls suburb. The gathering, described by police as a "gay party," led to the arrest of Charama and several others. Charama, fearing prosecution and the threat of severe penalties, left Zimbabwe shortly after her release on bail, securing a student visa to North Cyprus.
The raid occurred late in the evening, with officers entering the premises, disrupting the gathering, and arresting everyone present. Witnesses reported that police officers aggressively handcuffed attendees before loading them into a police vehicle and transporting them to a local station. Among those detained were 21-year-old Tinotenda Marimbe, 19-year-old Princess Kanengoni, 20-year-old John Nyari, 22-year-old Steven Katsenge, 21-year-old Emily Jonasi, 19-year-old Mike Dzvene, and 23-year-old Kim Chisero.
Zimbabwe's laws criminalize same-sex relationships, and gatherings such as this one are considered illegal by the authorities. Police spokespersons condemned the event, describing it as a "breach of public morality" and emphasizing that the country would not tolerate such behavior.
The detainees, including Charama and the others, were subjected to extensive interrogations, where they were accused of violating the country's laws and engaging in "unnatural acts." Police officers reportedly insulted the group, making derogatory comments about their identities and threatening long-term imprisonment. Charama and the others were held in a small cell for several days, during which they were denied contact with family members or legal counsel.
After several days in detention, most of the group members were released after being fined $80 each for misconduct. Charama, however, faced additional charges and potential harsher penalties. Choosing to flee rather than face prosecution, she left Zimbabwe shortly after her release, heading to North Cyprus.
The situation highlights the difficult reality for LGBTQ individuals in Zimbabwe, where legal protections are lacking, and social attitudes remain deeply hostile. While the other detainees have avoided further legal consequences after paying their fines, they continue to live under scrutiny. Meanwhile, Charama's escape to North Cyprus underscores her desperate attempt to find safety and live without fear of persecution.