Man Arrested for Molesting 13-Year-Old Girl on MRT
In a disturbing incident that unfolded on the MRT, a 60-year-old man was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison after he molested a 13-year-old girl. The man, identified as Pacheco Gutierrez Julian Roberto, a Peruvian chef, approached the girl at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station under the pretext of asking for directions. This incident, along with other criminal activities he committed during his brief stay in Singapore, has raised significant concerns about public safety.
The Incident at Dhoby Ghaut MRT
On the evening of 18 May, Pacheco approached the young girl, inquiring about how to reach the Downtown Line (DTL). After receiving directions, he unexpectedly grabbed her hand and pulled her onto the train, instructing her to sit beside him. The girl, feeling frightened and unsure, complied with his demands. During the journey, Pacheco placed his hand on her thigh, which left the victim feeling vulnerable and alarmed, reported Shin Min Daily News.
When the train reached Little India MRT station, Pacheco attempted to further engage the girl by asking her to accompany him to a restaurant. Fortunately, she declined his invitation, prompting him to release her and exit the train alone. After the incident, the girl confided in her sister, who subsequently informed their father, leading to a police report being filed.
A Pattern of Criminal Behaviour
This incident was not an isolated case for Pacheco. Reports indicate that he had entered Singapore with the intention of committing theft, having been advised by a friend that it was easy to steal in the city. Just a day prior to the molestation, he had stolen a Louis Vuitton wallet valued at S$1,000 from a woman at Lau Pa Sat, which contained cash and several credit cards. Additionally, he had stolen a mobile phone from a diner at a restaurant, discarding the bag afterwards.
Pacheco faced multiple charges in court, including molestation and theft. After pleading guilty to three of the charges, he requested leniency, acknowledging his wrongdoings. However, the court ultimately sentenced him to 16 weeks in prison, and he has yet to make restitution for the stolen items.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked outrage within the community, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and safety measures in public transport systems. Many are calling for more robust security protocols to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly minors, from such predatory behaviour. As discussions around public safety continue, it is crucial for authorities to address these concerns and ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.
In conclusion, the case of Pacheco Gutierrez Julian Roberto serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in public spaces. It underscores the importance of community awareness and the need for effective measures to safeguard individuals, especially children, from harm.