Masses Gather in Support for Victim of Heinous Sexual Assault Case

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The South Sulawesi’s United Women’s Movement (GPB) on Sunday evening gathered in front of the Undata General Hospital in Palu in support of the victim of a heinous rape case being treated. The masses lit multiple candles while collectively praying in support of the sexual assault victim who was tragically abused throughout the span of 10 months as a humanitarian aid volunteer. 

“The message that we would like to convey tonight through our collective prayer is for the full recovery of the victim,” said Nurlaela Lamasituju, a representative of the movement on June 4. 

The teenage victim aged 16 suffered an acute infection in her reproduction organ and is reportedly facing the harrowing possibility that her uterus will have to be removed. 

The suspects who sexually abused the teenage girl amounted to 11 people comprising a local village leader, a teacher, and a police officer. 

Nurlaela also lamented the recurring nature of these cases and argues that such cases fail to grab the attention of the masses, which is why she called for the general public to collectively join hands and fight for the protection of women and children. 

“To prevent similar cases from happening again in the future,” she asserted, while also highlighting the importance of presenting a deterrent effect towards the suspects. 

In a virtual message, the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) commissioner Livia Iskandar assured that the watchdog will always be present in providing protection for the 16-year-old victim, fulfilling her rights as a victim and providing psychological support after going through a traumatic series of sexual assaults. 

“These are essential for her to be discharged from the hospital as soon as possible, so she can undergo the criminal justice processes well,” she said.

ANTARA

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