Say no to compo, settle rape cases in court

 POLICE in East New Britain have advised the families of rape victims to reject any offers of compensation from the offenders.

Acting provincial police commander Snr Insp David Yapu highlighted this yesterday when talking to community leaders, village court magistrates and ward councillors.

He said sex offences such as rape were categorised as serious crimes.

“Only police personnel have the mandate and jurisdiction to investigate such cases, and the power to deal with sexual offences lies with the national court,” Yapu said.

He said community leaders and families must not support any other mediation process in the village or the community.

“This will only result in the perpetrators or offenders not learning their lessons and repeating the offences in the future,” he said.

Yapu said reports and complaints should be referred to the Sexual Violence Unit officers at the Kokopo police station. 

Kokopo has been dealing with an increasing number of sex offences including touching, incest, and sexual penetration of minors.