THE BUREAU of Women's Affairs has expressed concern and regret on the recent abduction and brutal murder of 12-year-old Janealle Blair of Old Harbour, St. Catherine.
"This vicious act, the latest in a series against our children in recent times, further highlights the alarming rates of crime and violence in our society," a release issued by the Bureau said.
"Violence against women and girls is a plague with which we have to strive even harder to eliminate. We mourn the passing of yet another precious girl child, who has been taken away from us in such a heinous manner.Our girls are particularly vulnerable and should enjoy the protection and freedom of movement provided for under our constitution. They must have the right to walk and commute freely without fear of being intimidated, molested, sexually abused or killed.
"The fight to eradicate violence against women and girls must be stepped up and the Bureau of Women's Affairs will intensify its efforts to educate and sensitise the public on the issue. However, the war on this malady cannot be achieved by any one group, but requires the combined efforts of government and civil society."
