PAPAR: Police have arrested a 24-year-old local to assist in an investigation into allegations that he raped a 16-year-old girl.
Papar District Police Chief Supt Heryan Mohd Tahir said the teenager lodged a police report on Friday, alleging that the incidents occurred on multiple occasions between March and July this year.
Following the report, officers from the Criminal Investigation Division launched an immediate investigation and arrested the suspect in the Kinarut area later that night.
The girl was referred to hospital for a medical examination, while the suspect is expected to be remanded to facilitate investigations.
Police are continuing their investigation, including recording witness statements and examining relevant locations.
Heryan said police take all sexual offences involving children and minors seriously.
He urged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities, including their use of social media, and to report any suspected crime or sexual exploitation to the authorities immediately.
He also reminded the public not to speculate or disclose the victim’s identity, as doing so could interfere with investigations and violate the victim’s privacy.
The case remains under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact the nearest police station or the investigating officer.
