KUALA LUMPUR, May 18 — Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain has voiced apprehension regarding the surge in statutory rape cases nationwide since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Expressing concern over the trend, Shuhaily emphasized that some cases involved minors who viewed their sexual activities as consensual, heightening worries about the understanding of legality among young individuals.
Shuhaily’s remarks come amidst reports highlighting instances like the gang rape case in Kelantan involving minors aged nine and ten, where no charges were filed due to their age and the assertion of consensual engagement. He underscored the need for vigilance and emphasized the role of adult supervision, pointing out the role of social media and easy access to pornography as contributing factors to the rise in cases, urging for a concerted effort to address this alarming trend.
