Accra, July 29, GNA - Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) says statistics available indicates a reduction in the number of reported rape and defilement cases for the first quarter of this year as compared to same period in 2007.

A press statement signed by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Freeman Tettey, Public Affairs Officer of DOVVSU, said a total of 381 defilement cases were recorded nationwide from January to March 2008, as against 349 for the same period in 2007. For rape, the Unit received 100 cases which is a slight reduction in 2007 figure of 104. The statement said Greater Accra Region topped both defilement and rape cases for the period, recording 163 cases, followed by Ashanti Region with 74; Eastern Region, 65; Tema Metropolis, 40; Central Region, 17, and Northern Region 35.

It said Volta Region reported 26 cases; Upper West Region, seven; Western Region, 35 and Brong Ahafo, nine. Upper East Region did not record any defilement and rape cases. The Unit bemoaned the practice where some families of victims of sexual abuse were accepting monetary compensation and other forms of inducement in order not to report such cases to the Police. "Such behaviour is criminal and unacceptable," it said, adding that the practice ran contrary to the law which provides that cases of defilement and rape cannot be settled outside the court system.

"The Domestic violence and Victim Support Unit wishes to advise the public to endeavour to report such cases and to assist the Police in arresting perpetrators." The Unit advised parents, guardians and school authorities to monitor and protect children from falling prey to irresponsible persons, who could take advantage of their vulnerability to defile them.