A 28-year-old farmer has been convicted for the abduction and rape of his 15-year-old cousin, a case that has sent shockwaves through the local community. Justice Lee James Burney announced the verdict at the High Court in Labasa, finding the defendant guilty of several charges, including two counts of rape, abduction, and indecent assault.
The court was informed that the incident occurred after the victim was leaving school. The accused offered to give her a ride home after picking her up from Nacula Supermarket. Rather than taking her home, he proposed a joyride, which she refused. Instead, he drove to a secluded area in Benau, where he then assaulted her and coerced her into silence by threatening her father.
Justice Burney praised the victim’s testimony, declaring her to be a “truthful and reliable witness,” and noted that the accused failed to present a credible defense against the charges. His claims of innocence were effectively dismantled during the trial.
This alarming case reflects a troubling trend of sexual violence against minors in Fiji, particularly within family settings. In a related matter, a separate case involved a 44-year-old farmer sentenced to 13 years for sexually assaulting his teenage daughter, with the judge denouncing the act as an “incestuous and heinous” betrayal of trust. Both cases underscore the critical need for heightened protection for young victims and a societal commitment to addressing sexual violence.
The outcomes of these cases spotlight the urgent need for advocacy and protective measures for vulnerable children. As communities confront these dire issues, it remains vital to empower survivors, encourage reporting, and foster environments that prioritize the safety and well-being of young individuals. Despite the gravity of these situations, there is hope for progress through increased awareness and collective action against sexual violence.
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