A Singapore court has sentenced a 33-year-old Indian-origin man to 19 months in jail after convicting him of molesting his friend’s younger sister over a prolonged period more than a decade ago. The offences occurred when the victim was between seven and nine years old, while the accused was in his late teens to early twenties.

The court heard that the victim did not initially report the incidents, stating she feared that her account would not be believed. She later disclosed the abuse to her mother and her partner, prompting further questions that led to a formal police complaint in March 2023. During proceedings, she described how the experiences had a lasting impact on her ability to form and maintain physical affection in later life.

The accused denied the charges and contested the allegations, asserting that the interactions were consensual and suggesting that the complaint was motivated by personal reasons. However, the court found the evidence sufficient to establish guilt on two counts of molestation. Prosecutors argued that the accused had taken advantage of the victim’s young age and the trust extended to him by the family.

In delivering the sentence, the court considered the seriousness of the offences and the vulnerability of the victim at the time. Prosecutors had sought a longer jail term, emphasizing the breach of trust and the repeated nature of the acts. Under Singapore law, each count of molestation involving a minor carries potential penalties including imprisonment, fines, or corporal punishment.

The accused has indicated that he intends to appeal both the conviction and the sentence. The case highlights ongoing concerns about delayed reporting in abuse cases and the challenges victims face in coming forward, particularly when incidents occur during childhood.