Do not mistake grooming as teenage infatuation, says Wanita MCA chief

THE recent case involving a 14-year-old girl who went missing and was found four days later with a 47-year-old man, referred to as her ”boyfriend”, is deeply troubling. Wanita MCA expresses relief that the girl was found and appears physically unharmed. However, the nature of her disappearance raises serious concerns about child grooming and possible sexual exploitation. This must not be mistaken for a mere teenage infatuation. It is a matter involving the potential abuse and manipulation of a child by an adult more than three times her age.

The authorities must urgently secure an interim order to prevent any further contact between the suspect and the child. This is essential to ensure her safety and emotional well-being. The presence of visible kiss marks suggests clear signs of grooming and inappropriate behaviour. Wanita MCA urges the authorities to pursue charges under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act without leniency. At 14, a child is not legally or emotionally capable of giving informed consent. There is a real possibility that she may have been coerced or psychologically manipulated.