BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – REPORTS reaching this publication state that a student was allegedly raped last week at a primary school in the twin-island Federation of St. Kitts and her parents are seeking legal action against the learning institution.
According to an informed source, the alleged incident took place in the school’s female bathroom on the morning of Monday (Jul. 6).
“The little girl went into the bathroom between 9:30 and 10:00 a.m. and the older boy, whom she is afraid of because he has always been bullying her, went into the facility after her. It is alleged that he removed part of her garments by force and raped her.”
The source claimed that the girl had informed her parents of the incident.
“On her return home, the girl told her parents what transpired and they went to the school to enquire what action would be taken against the alleged perpetrator. They were however dissatisfied with the response from a certain official at the school, who seemed to want to sweep the incident under the carpet.”
The source also informed that the matter was reported to the police and two female members of the Special Victims Unit and a senior Welfare Officer had launched investigations into the alleged incident.
When contacted by SKNVibes, Police Press and Public Relations Officer Inspector Lyndon David stated that the matter had not reached his Department.
He however reminded of the law that governs such matters in relation to the disclosure of information that could lead to the identity of the victim and alleged perpetrator, especially juveniles.
In response, this media house categorically stated that it is aware of the law and, even though the names of the victim and alleged perpetrator as well as the school are known, in no way whatsoever would such information be made public.
The PRO pointed out that because of the nature of the incident and the age of the parties involved, it is unlikely that the police would provide any information.
This media house however stressed the importance of this alleged incident to be in the public’s domain in order for parents to remind their children, both girls and boys, to report if they had been inappropriately touched by anyone as is being advertised daily on local airwaves.
Editor-in-Chief's Note: At about 6:40 this evening, SKNVibes finally reached the Assistant Commissioner responsible for Crime, Ian Queeley, who explained that he was indisposed and could not have responded to calls earlier made to contact him. He stated that after reading the article, he enquired and was told that no official report was made to the police but a senior Welfare Officer is aware of it. He however promised that the alleged incident would be looked into by the relevant Unit.
