GOKWE police say they are hunting a man who duped a village headman into finding him a VIRGIN after claiming to be the son of Chief Njelele.

Not only did the man deflower a 16-year-old teen but he stole her mobile phone and jacket before fleeing just as his elaborate con was about to unravel.

Assistant Inspector Samuel Tadzaushe says they are pursuing several leads, adding that the suspect – who claimed his name was Emmanuel Njelele – could face charges of impersonation and theft.

Tadzaushe said the man arrived at Headman Chisina’s home on February 2 this year and spun him an elaborate yarn, claiming to be the son of the local chief.

The man, described by police as in his late 20s or early 30s, had a simple request from the headman: he wanted a virgin to marry.

Assistant Inspector Tadzaushe said in no time, the headman had sent his wife and some elderly women from the village on a scouting mission.

“The suspect identified a 16-year-old girl and some rites were performed upon which her proud parents were only too happy to participate, seeing their daughter was marrying into royalty,” he added.

A day later, the headman ordered his aides to accompany the charlatan to Chief Njelele’s homestead with his new bride, using a scotch cart.

But as they were just meters from the chief’s home, said Tadzaushe, the suspect – who was holding the girl’s mobile phone and jacket – jumped off and fled.

The chief added: "This individual has gone around different areas of Gokwe duping villagers in my name. My son is with me at home and I don't know how the villagers are falling prey to this man.

"I have since met the parents of the young girl. I quizzed them on how they fell prey to the antics of this man, to the extent of letting their child get abused so easily.