The 62-year-old man who was accused by neighbours of committing a sexual act with a 13-year-old girl remains in police custody, four days after the incident allegedly occurred.
Stabroek News was reliably informed that the man implicated in the case is a popular shop owner within the community of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, where both he and the child reside.
A source close to the investigation yesterday told this newspaper several persons have given statements to the police, including relatives of the child and the man involved. It was further noted that the police are scheduled to visit the man’s home where the incident allegedly occurred and also the girl’s residence to conduct further investigations. The source stated that it is likely that the man would be charged soon.
This newspaper understands that the girl has been discharged from hospital where doctors determined that her hymen was broken. She is now at home and according to the source, refuses to talk much and is in a traumatised state. A Welfare Officer was expected to visit the home yesterday.
When Stabroek News contacted the Child Care and Protection Agency (CCPA), it was stated that the police are still investigating and this would have to be concluded before any action can be taken. However, it was noted that close attention was being paid to the matter as it progressed with the source pointing out that the family of the child is strongly supporting her.
It was reported that neighbours on Sunday last saw the accused as he committed the act and immediately reported the matter to the Tuschen Policing Group which promptly acted and arrested the man. They then handed him over to the Leonora Police Station.
This is the second matter since the year started where reports have surfaced of minors being molested in Tuschen.
