Sexual Offences
Unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under 16 years’ of age
Unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under 16 years’ of age is an offence contrary to Section 124 of the Crimes Ordinance (Chapter 200). The maximum punishment is 5 years’ imprisonment.
The offence is complete upon proof of sexual intercourse and proof that at the time of the sexual intercourse the girl was under 16 years’ of age. That the girl consented and/or that the defendant believed the girl was over 16 years’ of age are not defences to this charge. The offence is an absolute liability offence. The objective of the legislation is the protection of girls under 16 years’ of age. These matters may however be relevant in mitigation of sentence.
