Two Young Men Arrested for Sexual Abuse of Minors in Maputo

Two young men are being held in Maputo, charged in separate cases of child sexual abuse. One of the suspects, 27 years old, is accused of raping a 9-year-old boy, the son of the owners of the residence where he is renting. The other young man is being held responsible for having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl, which constitutes a crime under Mozambican law, even if it occurred with consent.

 Both individuals deny the accusations, claiming they are based on persecution and misunderstandings. However, police authorities claim to be gathering evidence and testimonies to support criminal prosecution. Civil society is concerned about the recurrence of these cases and demands stronger measures to ensure the protection of children.