A 13-year-old girl with mental disabilities was sexually abused in Imerimanjaka, in the commune of Ambohijanaka, Atsimondrano district, last week. A 47-year-old man living in the neighborhood is suspected of committing the assault. He was immediately arrested and taken to the police station along with the young victim. Police were informed of the incident following a complaint filed by the child's father in Imerimanjaka. The suspect's arrest came quickly after necessary information was gathered.

Regarding sexual violence, the National Police has observed that victims and their families are increasingly willing to file complaints. Law enforcement intervenes immediately upon notification of such cases. Five people have already been arrested in various rape cases that have been reported since late last week.

Beyond the Ambohijanaka case, a man was arrested for the alleged rape of a 13-year-old girl in Namontana. In Tolagnaro, a man is suspected of raping a 6-year-old girl. In Sambava and Amparafaravola, two other suspects—a young man and a man respectively—are also involved in rape cases.

The National Police urges the public to report and immediately denounce any acts of violence committed against children and vulnerable persons. Perpetrators of sexual violence are often people from the victim's surroundings, sometimes unsuspected. Vigilance remains essential. Prompt reporting of such incidents helps protect victims and enables the law to be applied against suspected perpetrators.

Nantenaina Njanahary