On Friday, Judiciary Police (PJ) arrested a 51-year-old man for the alleged sexual assault of a girl under 12 years old on a public bus on her way to school.
According to the authorities, the incident occurred around 7 a.m. as the young victim was commuting to school.
The suspect, who claimed to be a security guard, was seated next to the child on the bus.
It’s alleged that on three separate occasions, each lasting over 20 seconds, the suspect reached over and put his hand inside the girl’s shorts.
He allegedly forcibly touched her inner thighs and private parts, ignoring her attempts to push his hand away.
Terrified but afraid to cause a scene, the young victim endured the abuse in silence.
Too afraid to call for help, the child instead stood and moved to the opposite side of the bus, trying to distance herself from the man.
Upon arriving at her stop, the shaken victim went straight to her school and tearfully recounted the ordeal to her teacher, who then contacted the girl’s parents and accompanied them to the police station to report the crime.
The suspect was later arrested at his workplace, and the authorities have charged him with aggravated sexual coercion.
The police have reiterated their zero-tolerance for criminal behavior targeting minors.
In the wake of this incident, the public has been urged to immediately contact the authorities if they witness or experience such situations.
The Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSED) has confirmed the bureau will continue to educate students about the importance of reporting such incidents to trusted adults, including teachers, counselors and parents, and to contact the police when necessary.
DSEDJ’s Wong Ka Ki said expressed deep concern after receiving notification from relevant departments and confirmed he had contacted the school the student attends, adding that teachers and counselors provided appropriate support, and the girl is currently emotionally stable.
Also, PJ said it prioritizes crimes against young people and maintains a strict “zero tolerance” policy toward any behavior that harms them.
To enhance self-protection awareness among youth, the police will continue educational initiatives in schools, “helping students develop a strong understanding of safety and the importance of reporting crimes.”
Victoria Chan
No Comments