Two teenage boys were charged in the Tawau Magistrate's Court on Thursday, October 3, 2024, for the gang rape of a 12-year-old girl. The incident occurred on a farm in the East Coast district the previous week.
The accused, aged 13 and 14, appeared before Tawau Court Assistant Registrar Mohd Afiz Huzairi Ayob, who presided over the case in the absence of the Magistrate. No plea was entered by either defendant.
The boys were accused of committing the rape on a farm behind an unnumbered house in a village on Jalan Utara at approximately 9:40 PM on September 26. The charges were brought under Section 376(2)(e) and Section 34 of the Penal Code, which carry a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum of 30 years imprisonment, as well as whipping.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Batrisyia Mohd Khusri, representing the prosecution, did not offer bail for the accused, who were unrepresented by counsel. The boys' guardians were present in the courtroom.
The court set November 21 as the next hearing date before Magistrate Dayang Aidaku Amira Aminuddin.
It was previously reported that police had detained three boys on September 30 in connection with the gang rape. Tawau deputy OCPD Supt Champin Piuh stated that the arrests were made following a report filed by the victim's mother.
Of the three suspects, only two were charged, while the third was made a prosecution witness. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of young girls. The case has also highlighted the urgent need for stricter measures to prevent sexual violence against minors.
As the case progresses, the public will be closely watching for updates on the investigation and the potential outcomes for the accused. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting children from harm and ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous crimes face justice.
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