A 22-year-old man has been taken into custody on suspicion of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl at a hotel in the city of Kokand, the press service of the Prosecutor General’s Office said.
The Kokand city prosecutor’s office opened a criminal case on Sept. 29, a day after the alleged assault, under Article 128 of the Criminal Code, which covers sexual intercourse with a person under 16, Part 3, clause “a.” The suspect was detained, and on Sept. 30 he was placed in custody as a preventive measure.
Forensic examinations have been ordered and preliminary investigative steps are continuing, the Prosecutor General’s Office said.
The Fergana provincial office of the National Agency for Social Protection said after reports of the case spread that it had placed the matter under the supervision of its responsible staff. The girl has been assigned psychological and legal services to protect her rights, help her recover emotionally and provide support.
In mid-October, a law was signed setting penalties of up to 25 years in prison, or life imprisonment, for those who commit sexual violence against a child under 14. There is no statute of limitations for such crimes.
