Tepa (Ash), July 21, GNA - The Local Council of Churches at Tepa in the Ahafo-Ano North District have described rape and defilement as serious crimes that is causing destruction and damage to families and society. The council appealed to all Ghanaians especially religious leaders, traditional authorities, the police and judiciary to join hands to nib the canker in the bud.

The appeal was the outcome of a week long Christian Home Week celebration under the theme "Rape and Defilement, a challenge to the family" which was climaxed by a special thanksgiving service on Sunday. During the celebration poverty, indecent dressing, rural-urban migration, substance abuse, conflict and influence of the media were identified as the major causes of rape and defilement.

Depression, alcohol and drug abuse, suicide, spousal murder, asthma, HIV/AIDS, conflicts and marital disorders were also identified as outcome of sexual perversion.

In order to prevent these vices in homes, work places and society in general, council members suggested that families must live and promote peace, religious and moral education must be taken seriously in schools, whilst the media also run programmes that can instil moral uprightness in the society.

Community leaders and family members were thus urged not to shield or cover up rapists or defilers no matter their status in society and at the national level too government must ensure speedy prosecutions of perpetrators.

The Christian Home Week initiated by the Christian Council of Ghana, is held annually to enable the Christian community in the country to reflect on pertinent national issues.