Underage victim of reported sexual abuse fails to turn up at police hearing
Police looking for more details of July incident in Rajasaari
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The police in Helsinki have not thus far reached the underage female who in mid-July reported a case of sexual abuse that had taken place in Helsinki’s Rajasaari. The police had asked the plaintiff to come to be heard on Monday, but she failed to show up.
Detective Inspector Jonna Turunen, who is in charge of the investigation, said on Monday morning that the police have failed to make contact with the injured party already on previous occasions. “It is the holiday season, and people may have other things to do”, Turunen speculated.
A female under the age of 18 filed a report on a case of sexual assault with the Helsinki Police Department on July 15th. According to the girl, several men had sexually abused her in Helsinki’s Rajasaari on the night between July 14th and 15th.
The police immediately launched an investigation into the incident. The reported crime was classified as suspected sexual abuse. According to the police, violence or threats of violence, which would have entitled the use of the word ‘rape’, did not take place.
According to the police, there were “around five” suspected assailants. The police investigation has revealed that they left the country on July 15th on a ferry to Sweden.
The police is aware of the identity of at least some of the suspected perpetrators. They are of age and of Romanian nationality.
Before the police can pursue the investigation they have to hear the complainant. “The plaintiff is passive”, Turunen stated on Monday.
“Hearing the victim is the starting point of the investigation. We are still waiting for her to contact us. If this does not happen, I am sure we will find another way to proceed with the matter”, Turunen added.
Should the police reach the conclusion that a crime has taken place, an international warrant to apprehend the men will be issued.
Helsingin Sanomat
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| 5.8.2008 - TODAY |
 Underage victim of reported sexual abuse fails to turn up at police hearing |
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