Kano records 1,125 rape, sexual assault cases in three months

The upsurge of sexual assault has reached an alarming rate in Kano, as WARAKA-SARC recorded 1,125 cases in three months.

A data released by the referral centre for technical assistance to victims of sexual assault in the state read: “There were 90 reported cases in February, 58 cases in March and 77 recorded in April, 2019.

Despite Section 283 of Kano State Penal Code, which specifies stiff penalties of life imprisonment and minimum of 14 years jail term for rape and other related sexual offences, sexual abuse in the state remains unabated.

Speaking at a four-day sensitisation and awareness programme for students of public secondary schools in Kano, Co-chairman of WARAKA-SARC, Chief Magistrate Maryam Sabo, said cases of gender-based violence and rape in Kano were worrisome.

She said: “WARAKA-SARC Centre was established by Kano State Justice Sector Reform Team to render technical assistance to victims of sexual assault and rape, provision of medical care to victims, undertaking legal action against perpetrators, counselling and creating awareness, among others.

“We want to urge our religious leaders, traditional leaders and community leaders to help sensitise the public against this crime. The parents, too, need to act fast and make sure they do not fail to protect their children.”