Members of Parliament observed a moment of silence today for the 9-year-old girl who is still admitted in hospital after she was allegedly raped on Tuesday while returning from school.

The request was made by Opposition member Semesa Karavaki.

While responding to Opposition member Ratu Isoa Tikoca’s question on what urgent actions police are taking to ensure the perpetrator is arrested, Minister for Defence, National Security and Immigration Timoci Natuva said a team from the Sexual Offense Unit, the crime investigation and K9 units are currently investigating the case.

Natuva said with 40 officers allocated to investigate the case, he is optimistic that the suspect will be apprehended soon.

Meanwhile, Chief of Intelligence and Investigations ACP Henry Brown said the victim is recovering well and has given her police statement although she is still traumatized after the incident.

Anyone with information is requested to contact the Nakasi Police Station.