World

5-year-old alleged rape victim may go back to Nauru

February 2, 2016 5:30 pm

A five-year-old boy allegedly raped on Nauru could be deported back to the Pacific island by the Australian government.

Immigration Minister Peter Dutton said the Australian government will consider medical advice before deciding whether to deport the boy.

Doctors have detailed their concerns about the child, along with worries about the wellbeing and safety of about 160 other children held in Australia’s detention centres.

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The boy could be returned to Nauru, where his alleged attacker remains, after a decision is handed down by the High Court on Tuesday about the legality of detention on the island.

Paediatrician Karen Zwi, speaking out despite the threat of jail, said the boy suffered serious mental health problems after the alleged sexual assault and began to self-harm.

Dutton told Lateline the paediatricians’ concerns for the boy would be taken into account.

“We take all of that into consideration,” he said.

As I say, if people need prolonged support they receive it and we’ve provided significant support for a number of people who have come to Australia because they can’t get the requisite medical needs in Nauru or in PNG.

“I won’t tolerate any thought of people … in particular children being abused by other refugees, by people otherwise.”