A 46-year-old construction worker, Asif Mohamed Abrahim, was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Friday after pleading guilty to the rape of a 15-year-old girl in Achawib Village, located in South Rupununi, Region Nine. Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif imposed the sentence during the Essequibo Assizes at the High Court in Suddie, based on the case of The State v. Abrahim.
Abrahim had previously been convicted for trafficking the same minor, leading to a 48-month prison sentence at the Leonora Magistrates’ Court.
According to the Statement of Agreed Facts, the victim, who lived with her parents in Achawib Village, crossed paths with Abrahim—a member of a construction team hired by the Village Council to build a health center—at a birthday party on October 28, 2023. Their relationship developed and culminated in sexual intercourse at the girl’s home just days later on November 3, 2023.
During a video interview with authorities, Abrahim admitted to the crime, incorrectly claiming that he had the permission of the girl’s parents. A subsequent medical examination at the Georgetown Public Hospital on January 19, 2024, indicated physical injuries to the victim.
Victim impact statements were presented in court from the girl’s parents and local leaders. The Toshao of Achawib Village, Wenceslaus Albert, criticized Abrahim for flouting community rules that prohibited involvement with minors. He noted the emotional trauma inflicted upon the entire community.
The victim’s mother expressed that the family had suffered significant emotional distress since the incident, while the victim herself, now 17 and in state care, testified about her ongoing struggles with depression and academic challenges. She urged the court to punish Abrahim to prevent further harm to other girls.
In mitigation, defense attorney Tonza A. Sarrabo acknowledged the gravity of the crime but urged for a lenient sentence, highlighting Abrahim’s compliance while incarcerated and his willingness to participate in rehabilitation programs. The defense also suggested that familial encouragement contributed to Abrahim’s misguided beliefs regarding the acceptability of his actions.
However, State Counsel Caressa Henry argued for a strict sentence, emphasizing the serious nature of the offense and the need to protect vulnerable community members.
Justice Chandra-Hanif addressed the case with significant gravity, asserting that no cultural or community approval could supersede legal protections for children. She reiterated the responsibility of adults to refrain from engaging with minors.
Ultimately, Abrahim was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment, with credit given for any time served on remand. This ruling aims to reflect society’s stand against such violations and emphasizes the protection of the most vulnerable.
