In a troubling case reported to the Bambous police, a 17-year-old girl with disabilities has alleged that she had been sexually assaulted by a 23-year-old classmate at a specialized school, not registered with the Special Education Needs Authority. The alleged attacker also has a disability and reportedly forced her to engage in sexual acts in the school’s restroom. The incident is said to have occurred a few weeks ago but only came to light recently when the victim’s parents noticed her abnormal behavior and persistent nausea.
Upon taking their daughter to a doctor, they discovered that she was pregnant. Following this revelation, she was referred to a psychologist, and a forensic examination is expected as part of the ongoing investigation.
The institution, located in Bambous, has denied the allegations. Mr. G.V, the center’s representative, claimed that the rumors were an attempt to damage the school’s reputation, stating that boys do not attend the facility and admitting that while the alleged perpetrator was previously a student, he has not been enrolled for the last two years. Furthermore, he asserted that he had notified the parents and child protection officers upon noticing that the girl appeared unwell and possibly pregnant during her recent visits to the school.
Mr. G.V suggested that the concerned family already has problems, claiming the young girl has a history of abuse, which complicates the situation. He expressed regret for previously trying to assist the family.
The victim’s father, traumatized by the series of events, expressed the anguish he feels, having previously tried to protect his daughter from similar issues with the Child Development Unit (CDU). He revealed that this is not the first time his daughter has suffered sexual abuse; she was previously assaulted by a close relative in 2020. This recent allegation marks a troubling continuation of her victimization, now occurring within the school environment.
The father, struggling with feelings of betrayal and facing his family’s isolation, shared that they no longer seek help from external sources, having been let down by a relative. His wife has stopped working to care for their daughters, including the victim. He described their dire situation, stating that neither he nor his wife has been able to eat properly since learning of the assault.
According to the victim, she had been threatened and assaulted repeatedly over several months by the alleged perpetrator, who also allegedly provided her with money to discourage her from reporting the abuse. The father confirmed that he and his wife had discovered money with their daughter on several occasions, which raised further concerns about her behavior.
Adding to the family’s distress, the father expressed frustration at how parents are treated when they attempt to raise concerns about the conduct within the institution. Describing their experiences, he lamented that they had been met with hostility when trying to address issues related to the welfare of the children at the daycare.
In light of these events, and at the request of social worker Jenssy Sabapathee, the family has sought legal representation from Me. Melanie Nagen to advocate for their case.
Authorities are currently investigating the allegations, with police officers interviewing both the victim and her family. The girl is receiving psychological support from the Ministry of Gender Equality, and her physical well-being is being monitored as part of her ongoing medical treatment.
As this case unfolds, it draws attention to the urgent need for protective measures and transparency in institutions working with vulnerable populations, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families.