Police have urged the public to stand up against child abuse following a heinous crime of defilement committed against a 9-year-old girl in Nyagatare District.

The suspect, 67, a resident of Rukomo Sector, is alleged to have pounced on the juvenile on Thursday, the day of his arrest.

He is currently detained at Gatunda Police Station as investigations continue, Police said. 

Police Spokesperson for Eastern Province Emmanuel Kayigi said the information about the act was swiftly provided by the local leaders in the sector, who had been informed by area residents, which enabled police to arrest the suspect before he could escape.

"The suspect committed the offence under the influence of illicit alcohol. After getting drunk, he stealthily entered his neighbour’s home and defiled the little girl. They caught him in the act and alerted local authorities, who also alerted the nearest Police station,” Kayigi said.

The victim was taken to Rurenge Health Centre for medical examination and treatment.

"It is possible that sometimes cases like this go unreported because parents and guardians feel ashamed or because they know the attacker as a family friend or relative. However, to ensure justice and prevent similar attacks, such crimes should be reported immediately,” Kayigi said.

He commended the public, particularly the Community Policing Committees and Youth Volunteers in Crime Prevention, for their steadfast contribution to security and safety by providing information about suspected criminals and gangs in society.

He also warned that whereas Police responds fast to reports of defilement and sexual assault, society needs to do more by watching over the safety of children.

"If a child is sexually assaulted and there is delay in reporting, the suspect could escape and continue his attacks against unsuspecting potential victims. Timely reports and evidence could be the difference between a conviction and the next victim,” Kayigi said.