Dozens of parents have voiced serious concern over the alarming increase in the rate of reported rape cases in the country. Their cry came in the wake of the preponderance of rape cases in the courts.

Many parents who spoke to Concord Times expressed their dissatisfaction with the way and manner men are willfully and intentionally sexually assaulting minors (girls) across the country.

Mariatu Samura, a petty trader at the Krootown Road market, said the rate of reported cases of rape and sexual assault of girls is on the increase in the country; a development she said is worrisome and has the tendency of destroying the future of the girl child. This issue, according to her, must not only be a fight in the hands of the government, but all patriotic Sierra Leoneans.

She implored the judiciary to interpret the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 astutely, and in the determination of the matters, grant relief to the victims.

"Some men are total disgrace to this nation; I cannot imagine why some men behave in such manner. This gives wrong signal to outsiders. Rape is illegal but it does not seem that way," she said.

Aminata Kallon from Koidu town said rape is on the increase in the diamondiferous district. She alleged that most rape cases taken to the police for investigation are being compromised, noting that police personnel encourage parties in the matter to compromise.

She attributed the menace of rape to poverty, as most of the victims are from poor homes. She applauded Magistrate Kamanda of Court No.2 for his decision on rape matters.

"I really appreciate Magistrate Komba Kamanda's stance on rape issues, he does not treat it with levity," she said.