Morocco court ups jail terms in child rape case that sparked outcry

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00:00 The verdict was delivered late at night. Increased sentences of 10 and 20 years, issued by Rabat's

00:06 court of appeal against three men accused of rape. The case, in which the accused repeatedly

00:11 raped an 11-year-old girl and left her pregnant, led to outcry across the country. The victim's

00:16 lawyer appeared pleased with the decision.

00:18 "We are very satisfied with the verdict, which reinforced the condemnation of the accused

00:25 by increasing their sentences, 10 years for two of the men and 20 years for the third."

00:32 The victim's father was among the first to arrive at court on Thursday ahead of the verdict,

00:46 appearing hopeful about the appeal.

00:48 "With the help of the media and regular citizens, I hope justice will be served for my daughter.

00:55 That's all I can say, there's nothing else to add. One of our aims is that my daughter's

01:02 child be recognised legally and be given a last name."

01:09 The prosecution requested that rape be added to the charges, which could have carried a

01:13 30-year jail sentence. But this was rejected by the judge. Instead, the three attackers

01:18 were accused of abducting a minor and indecent assault on a minor. Last month, the three

01:23 defendants were given sentences ranging from 18 months to two years in prison, which sparked

01:28 widespread outrage, as well as protests in Morocco's capital last week.

01:32 "An 11-year-old girl, raped and threatened. Her life has been completely shattered. Whoever

01:39 defends the judiciary, defends the rapists."

01:47 The nationwide outcry has forced the government to take action. Morocco's justice minister

01:51 said he was shocked by the original verdict and has called for increased protection of

01:55 children who have been sexually assaulted.

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