[File Photo]

A 50-year-old man has been handed a 13-year sentence for the heinous act of repeatedly raping a minor in Lau.

The man committed the crime 16 times on a vulnerable 14-year-old girl between the years 2016 and 2021, within the confines of an island in the Lau group.

The victim, who endured these horrific incidents, is now a Year-13 student.

The perpetrator willingly pleaded guilty to his despicable actions.

A non-parole period of 12 years and six months has been imposed.