Grade 8 students arrested on sex charges

Manus police are once again raising concerns on sexual offenses in the province after two Grade Eight students in the Pomutu-Kurti-Andra LLG were arrested on sex charges.

The two juveniles were arrested and charged on Tuesday this week with sexual penetration, under section 229(a) of the Criminal Code act and Sexual offense and Crimes against Children’s act.

The victim is a 14-year-old Grade Seven student who also attends the same primary school as the alleged perpetrators.

Manus acting provincial police commander, Senior Inspector David Yapu, said the victim, who attends Liap Primary School, was returning home last Wednesday (March 29) when she was allegedly confronted and sexually assaulted by the students, who are also 14 years of age.

“The victim reported the matter to her mother, who reported to the peace officer in the village and was referred to police,” PPC Yapu said.

They were later released to probation officers to go under the custody of their parents as they are juveniles and have to return to school. They are expected to appear at the Lorengau District Court this Friday.

PPC Yapu is now appealing to stakeholders and other relevant authorities to work together with police to address the increased sexual offenses in the province.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton