Minors accused of sex abuse released from custody

POLICE are expecting to wrap up an investigation soon into the alleged sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl by a group of schoolmates, police spokesman Andreas Angelides said.

The four minors, believed to be aged between 14 and 17, were released on Friday after Limassol district court had given them a two-day remand on Wednesday. A fifth teenager, a 13-year-old boy, was also arrested but later released due to the fact he was below the prosecution age, which starts in Cyprus at 14.

Angelides confirmed the four males were under investigation for offences relating to the sexual abuse of a minor.

“We expect investigations to be completed soon and the file will be handed over to the legal services and the Attorney-general who has asked to see the file to decide how to proceed,” he said.

Angelides added that statements were taken from the girl’s friends and family as well as the four minors’ friends and family.

“We have advised all the parents and the schools to keep a close eye on everyone so we are confident that there will be no incidents,” he added.

Angelides said that the 13-year-old was currently under the supervision of welfare services.

The 13-year-old was allegedly forced to have sexual contact with the minors, after previously coming into sexual contact with one of them. He allegedly recorded the incident on his mobile phone and threatened to upload the video online unless she submitted to the other four.

Angelides confirmed there had been “some threats”. According to reports, the issue came to light after the teenage girl confided in her teacher.

The four minors above the age of prosecution, if found guilty, could face time in prison, police said.

 

 

 

 

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