Two Arrested As Police Uncover 1,000-Member Gay WhatsApp Group

Over 1,000 people are allegedly active in the Harare WhatsApp group “Private Lounge,” which is being used to promote homosexual relationships, according to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).

Following the detention of a teenage boy and a 25-year-old guy from Highfield who were allegedly engaging in a same-sex relationship, the finding was made. Through the group, the teenage kid, a Form Four pupil at Glen Norah B Extension, and the man, who works at a nearby supermarket, are allegedly connected.

The teenage guy joined the group in January 2024, introducing himself and expressing interest in finding a partner, according to police investigations. The teenager was allegedly contacted by the 25-year-old male, who was already a part of the group, and they made plans to meet at Machipisa Shopping Centre.

According to reports, the teenager and the man had a drink together and got close at his house in May, which marked the beginning of a more intense relationship. The teen’s father blocked the man’s number after discovering love messages from him on his son’s phone, leading to the discovery of the affair. On October 7, 2024, however, the man made an attempt to get in touch with the child again using his mother’s phone number, which prompted the boy’s father to call the police.

The 25-year-old guy was taken into jail by police after the report, and the boy was released into the care of his parents while the inquiry was ongoing.

National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the arrests, stating, “We confirm that we have picked up two suspects who have assisted us to unearth a gay and homosexual WhatsApp group with more than 1,000 participants who have been meeting at various places and houses in Harare. Investigations are still in progress.”

The case has garnered attention amid Zimbabwe’s strict position on LGBTQ+ matters, with officials continuing their probe into the group and its members.  

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