Police arrest man accused of raping 14-year-old girl in Twic County

AWEIL— A 20-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl in South Sudan’s Twic County of Warrap State, according to police.

A 14-year-old girl was assaulted on Thursday while returning home after attending a night concert. The incident occurred at Wun-rok payam of Twic county.

Atem Deng Atem, a police inspector at Wunrok Payam, stated that a man identified as Athoi Mayot Chol was arrested after the girl reported the incident to her parents.

“The suspect, Athoi Mayot Chol, has been apprehended. The survivor reported that she was raped while returning from a night concert. Upon returning home, she experienced bleeding and reported the incident to her parents, which prompted them to pursue the boy, who is currently in custody,” said Deng.

Deng said they have launched an investigation into the incident, and the suspect is currently in custody awaiting trial.

“We don’t want anyone to attack the suspect; let the rule of law follow its course, and that is why it is necessary for us to be given responsibility to follow up,” he said.

Deng advised girls to refrain from roaming at night for concerts, noting that there are certain risks associated with night-time activities.

He added that some individuals may attempt to engage them in harmful situations that could impact their reputation or lead to more serious crimes such as assault.

“Why are you leaving the positive values that can make you earn respect and be married off properly after following your studies? Never move at night.”

Rape is punishable by law, with penalties that can extend to 10 years in prison, according to South Sudan’s Transitional Constitution.

Parents, teachers, and experts in gender-based violence advise young teenage boys and girls to refrain from engaging in inappropriate behavior with their peers, as some may face long prison sentences without the opportunity to support their families.