THERE have been 37 child abuse cases have been recorded by the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre from January to June this year.

According to FWCC, 21 cases were reported in Suva, five in Ba, six in Nadi, one in Rakiraki and four in Labasa.

The centre revealed that 32 women and five men had reported the cases which occurred to children between the ages of three and 17.

The figures also showed most of the abusers were related to the young victims.

FWCC co-ordinator Shamima Ali said the figures were disturbing.

Ms Ali said while it was encouraging that the cases were being reported, the centre was of the view that most of the cases went unreported because of the fear children had of being victimised.

She said in some cases, parents were aware of the abuse and had brushed it under the carpet while others protected the perpetrators.

She added more needed to be done to prevent child sex abuse in Fiji and whenever there was a nasty incident, there was shock and horror and statements were made but then the issue died down again.

Ms Ali said it was important for all stakeholders, including the Government and faith-based organisations to come together so they could share information, and look at international best practice on how to tackle sexual violence.