NPP urges NCPA to arrest the culprits

The National Peoples Power (NPP) yesterday urged the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) and the police to expedite legal action against those involved in the sexual abuse of a 6-year-old girl as shown in a video clip aired on social media websites and ensure her safety.

NPP members who met the NCPA Chairman handed over a letter requesting action against the culprits and the protection of the child.

They said in the letter, they were deeply concerned about reports that the little girl who has been the victim of sexual abuse could not be traced.

“Just as much as the legal action must be expedited to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice, we believe that the care and protection of the child is of paramount importance,” the letter said.

It said the child's safety and privacy had to be ensured and that she received proper care and protection must be a priority and added that even her physical safety seems to be uncertain.

The letter said one of the major weaknesses in our child protection system was that victims of abuse were subjected to further abuse from within the systems that are in place for their care and protection.

“Since this case has gathered so much public attention, the risks to the child are extremely high,” it said.

Attorney Harshana Nanayakkara who met the NCPA Chairman told the media that it was sad to find the law enforcement authorities had failed to arrest the suspect even after releasing the video clip to the media and to trace the child and ensure her protection. (Ajith Siriwardana)