Shairana Ali

Save the Children Fiji has commended the Judiciary for imposing harsher penalties for those guilty of heinous crimes against children.

Chief Executive Shairana Ali made the comment following Josevata Werelagi’s 14-year sentence today.

Werelagi was convicted of three counts of domestic trafficking of children and one count of aggravated sexual servitude.

Ali says such crimes must be dealt with quickly and calls for just sentencing to protect the dignity and rights of the children.

“In this case, we are pleased that the Judiciary has exercised the laws on child rights and protection of minors, however, civil society, government and the general public need to work hand in hand to protect children and prevent such crimes.”

The chief executive adds sexual abuse of children is prevalent in our societies and has a detrimental effect on a child’s emotional, psychological and physical wellbeing.