Commissioner for Children's Rights investigates handling of minor's sexual abuse complaint

Commissioner for Children's Rights, Elena Perikleous, is investigating the handling of a sexual abuse complaint involving a minor. The investigation began after the family's lawyer notified the Office of the Commissioner about the case. Initially, authorities treated the incident under a gender-based violence protocol, which involved taking a written statement from the victim at a police station. Perikleous noted that because the victim is a minor, the case should have immediately followed specialized procedures for child sexual abuse. The Police reported that the case was subsequently referred to the 'House of the Child' for assessment and support. The Commissioner is currently investigating potential procedural gaps that led to the initial mishandling of the case. She has requested formal explanations from the Ministry of Social Welfare and Social Services. The Commissioner is awaiting responses from the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare to conclude her assessment. Reports suggest that three previous letters from the Commissioner's office regarding this matter remained unanswered.