15-year-old Francis Feika has been charged with the sexual assault of a four-year-old girl on Fabai Street in Kenema. The assault occurred on April 8, 2025, while the victim was playing outside her home.
Aminata Sesay, a nearby resident, expressed her outrage, stating, “Our children should be safe in their own yards.”
Community elder Joseph Kamara echoed these concerns, highlighting the need for stronger child protection measures in Sierra Leone. “Our daughters deserve to grow up without fear,” he said.
Magistrate Hamida recognized the gravity of the offense and has committed Feika’s case to the High Court for trial, where penalties for child sexual abuse are severe. The prosecution, led by Police Sergeant Davis Idriss from the Kenema Police Division’s Legal and Justice Support Department, presented medical reports and witness testimonies confirming the assault. “This is a crime against a defenseless child,” Idriss stated, vowing to seek justice for the victim and her family.
The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has intervened to support the victim, providing counseling and medical care. A ministry official remarked, “This child’s pain is our pain; we’re here to help her heal and prevent such crimes.” Local schools are also taking proactive measures, with teachers like Mariama Bangura planning lessons on child safety.
The rise in such cases highlights ongoing challenges in Kenema, where economic hardship and unemployment contribute to increased crime rates. Inspector Teh of the Kenema Police Division announced heightened patrols and community meetings to address these issues. “We’re training our officers to handle theft and abuse cases with care,” he emphasized.
In response to the recent shopbreaking incidents, local traders have formed a market watch group to enhance security, with members taking turns to guard the area at night. “We’re tired of being afraid,” said trader Fatmata Koroma.