Ouahigouya: The Ouahigouya High Court concluded its deliberations on the case involving a 19-year-old gold panner, identified as SI, who was prosecuted for the rape of a 16-year-old girl. The court sentenced SI to seven years in prison, of which three are to be served, and imposed a fine.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the incident occurred on the evening of June 5, 2026, in Naaba Kango's sector 10. The victim, SC, who was 16 at the time, was sent by her father on an errand when she encountered SI. Despite his claims of consensual relations, SC testified that SI coerced her into a small house at knifepoint, where the act took place.

SI admitted to possessing a knife but denied using it to threaten SC. He claimed they had consensual relations and was unaware of her age. However, SC's testimony indicated otherwise, detailing the forceful circumstances surrounding the incident.

The prosecution highlighted the serious nature of the crime, referencing the victim's age and the legal implications under Article 533 of the Penal Code, which classifies sexual relations with minors as rape, irrespective of consent.

The prosecutor initially requested a 36-month sentence with six months of mandatory imprisonment, citing the ages of both SI and SC, and SI's status as a first-time offender. The court, however, imposed a harsher sentence, considering the gravity of the crime.

SI was ultimately found guilty and sentenced to seven years in prison, with part of the sentence suspended. The court also levied a fine of 600,000 FCFA, with an immediate payment requirement of 100,000 FCFA. The victim's representative opted not to pursue a civil suit.

SI has a 10-day window to appeal the court's decision, as per legal stipulations.