The Phek Town Council (PTC) has strongly condemned the alleged sexual assault of a minor boy in Phek district, describing the incident as a “heinous” and “barbaric” act that constitutes a grave crime against an innocent child and an attack on the values of humanity and the safety of society.
The condemnation comes a day after Phek Police arrested a man in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a minor boy in Sekruzu Town. Police had said a written complaint was received on July 1, following which a case was registered under various provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the accused was apprehended on the same day.
Commending Phek Police for its swift response and prompt initiation of legal proceedings, the PTC urged the investigating authorities to conduct a “thorough, impartial and expeditious investigation” and ensure that the accused is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law under the relevant provisions of the POCSO Act and other applicable laws.
The council expressed solidarity with the victim and the family and appealed to the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the child by refraining from sharing any information that could reveal the victim’s identity.
Stating that the incident serves as a reminder that the protection of children is a collective responsibility, the PTC called upon parents, schools, churches, community organisations, civil society groups and citizens to remain vigilant and work together to create a safe and nurturing environment where every child can live free from fear, abuse and exploitation.
“There must be zero tolerance for crimes against children. Justice must be swift, and the guilty must be punished in accordance with the law,” the council stated.