A Lautoka High Court judge says rape must be deterred and condemned as a social menace.

Justice Aruna Aluthge added much has been said recently by the courts as to the gravity of rape as a crime.

He says rape is a serious offence committed against humanity and a violation of sexual autonomy of a person.

He made the remarks while sending five men to prison for gang-raping an 18-year-old woman in the West in 2013.

Ilisoni Waqa, Epi Navakasilimi, Meciu Nacaucaulevu, Waisea Vuli and Jone Serukalou in their 20s embarked on a on a grog session leading to this heinous assault and rape of a vulnerable young girl.

Justice Aluthge said her enjoyment of life had been shattered.

“The scar will be with her for the rest of her life. It has been repeatedly said by psychologists that the effect of sexual assault on victims is profound and prolonged,” he said.

He further stated that it was a highly aggravating feature that the accused took advantage of a vulnerable girl and exploited her when she was helpless.

“A girl is entitled to drink with boys and is entitled to that same respect that any drinking young man would extend to any male companion,” he said

The victim joined the grog session on the insistence of Nacaucaulevu who was related to her.

He breached that trust. She was forced to submit to Ilisoni Waqa by means of physical violence.

Ilisoni Waqa, convicted of five counts of rape was sentenced to 10 years and seven months imprisonment with a non-parole period of eight years.

Navakasilimi was sentenced to eight years and six months imprisonment with a non parole period of six years.

Nacaucaulevu was sentenced to eight years and nine months of imprisonment with a non-parole period of six years.

Vuli was jailed for eight years and six months with a non parole period of six years.

Serukalou was jailed for eight years and six months with a non-parole period of six years.

All accused have 30 days to appeal.

Edited by Nemani Delaibatiki

Feedback:  jessica.gounder@fijisun.com.fj