Five men have been handed prison sentences after being convicted of gang-raping an 18-year-old girl in the western division in January 2013.

High Court Judge, Justice Aruna Aluthge says the victim was staying at her aunt’s place when she was invited by her cousin to join a grog session at the house.

It was confirmed in court that when the 18-year-old went to sleep, the men went in and tied her up.

They then gang-raped the girl.

Ilisoni Waqa admitted the sexual intercourse in court while Meciu Nacaucaulevu, Waisea Vuli and Jone Serukalou also confessed to police.

Justice Aluthge says rape is a serious offence committed against humanity and a violation of sexual autonomy of a person.

He says this offence must be deterred and condemned as a social menace.

Having considered the gravity of the offence, the gang rape situation and the impact of the victim, Justice Aluthge selected a starting point of 10 years imprisonment for all the five accused.

He says it is a highly aggravating feature that the accused took advantage of a vulnerable girl and exploited her when she was helpless.

However Justice Aluthge says all five accused have clear records and are first offenders.

He says they deserve some leniency on that account.

Ilisoni Waqa has been sentenced to 10 years and 7 months imprisonment. A non parole period of eight years has been sent for him.

A non-parole period of six years has been set for Epi Navaka-silimi, Meciu Nacaucaulevu, Waisea Vuli and Jone Serukalou.

They have each been handed just over 8 year prison sentences.