In a recent and deeply troubling case in Weija, Accra, a 35-year-old labourer has been handed a one-year prison sentence by the Gender-Based Violence Court for the sexual molestation of a five-year-old girl. Moro Yusif, who was charged with indecent assault, entered a guilty plea with an explanation.
Case Details
Yusif's claimed that he was merely playing with the victim to aid his own physical arousal and admitted to placing her on his lap, resulting in his clothing becoming wet. He insisted that he used her buttocks to rub against his boxer shorts while she was wearing pants and a straight dress. The prosecution pushed for a deterrent sentence, emphasizing the accused's responsibility to protect the victim.
The incident took place at Old Weija, Accra, where the complainant, a trader and mother of the victim, resided in the same house as the accused. On January 8, around 6:00 pm, the complainant and her husband noticed their daughter near the accused person's room. A witness observed the victim attempting to open the accused person's door, prompting the intervention of the complainant. When questioned, Yusif failed to provide a clear answer. Subsequent confrontations with witnesses revealed that his boxer shorts were wet, and he admitted to ejaculating in them while using his genitals to make contact with the victim's genital area.
Legal Proceedings
The complainant reported the incident to the Weija Divisional DOVVSU on January 9, 2024, and a medical form was issued for the victim's examination. On January 15, 2024, the complainant returned the medical form duly endorsed by a medical officer, solidifying the case against Yusif.The prosecution stressed the need for a stern sentence, holding Yusif accountable for violating the trust and safety of the young victim.
Prosecution's Stance
This case highlights the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals within our communities and serves as a reminder of the responsibility we all share in ensuring their protection.
The sentencing of Moro Yusif sends a clear message that such egregious actions will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions. It is crucial for society to continue advocating for the safety and well-being of all, particularly those who are most susceptible to harm.
-By Hilda Amoako | Ghana Crimes
