When presented with documentation identifying the sex trafficking survivors as over 18 years of age, the judge took pause. The identification cards had been provided by the accused perpetrators who had exploited the two minor girls in a brothel. Often in such cases, identification cards are accepted as evidence without question, but this judge recalled something he had learned recently at a Justice Hub training.
At this training for court officials held just a few days prior, the Justice Hub team expounded on an important high court ruling giving guidance on determining victims’ ages and providing procedural safeguards for child victims throughout legal proceedings.
The judge used the knowledge obtained to conduct a further examination and conclude that the girls were minors, despite the identification cards provided by the perpetrators. This was a major victory for the two minor girls, as it granted them the right to shelter in a children’s home, receive government compensation intended for children, and access educational opportunities. It also allowed the traffickers to be prosecuted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), which is now under way.
We rejoice in the great step forward for children survivors in this local community. Visit the eJRC to learn more about POCSO.
