A 3-year-old girl is the youngest victim of rape in Fiji after she was assaulted twice by her grandfather.

The youngest offenders were two 17-year-olds apprehended for defilement and indecently assaulting minors.

Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said this was a serious concern that needed the intervention and help of all arms of society.

“Rape 32, sexual assault 20, indecent assault 17, indecently annoying any person 10, abduction of persons under 18 years with intent to have carnal knowledge 6, defilement of young person between 13 and 16 years of age 5 and attempt to commit rape 1.”

Total crime rose by 18% in February with theft topping the list of offences.

With 52 cases recorded in cyber-related crimes, concerns are high that these crimes are becoming increasingly prevalent.