Tenkodogo: A 49-year-old Quranic teacher appeared before the Tenkodogo court on Thursday, June 11, 2026, on charges of repeated rape of an 8-year-old girl. The defendant, remanded in custody, will learn his fate on June 18.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the investigation conducted by the Central Police Station of Tenkodogo revealed that the victim, AZ, born on January 1, 2018, according to her birth certificate, was subjected to repeated sexual assaults by SO, born on March 9, 1977, in Tenkodogo.

The Quranic teacher admitted to the acts during his hearing. The incidents allegedly took place in the mosque where he taught in February 2026. After evening classes, the defendant reportedly released his other students but detained the victim to commit the crimes.

The public prosecutor brought the case to court, leading to SO being placed in custody pending his trial. During the hearing, the prosecutor highlighted the gravity of the offense and emphasized the importance of protecting minors.

The prosecutor requested a sentence of 12 months of community service, a fine of 3 million CFA francs, and a five-year prohibition on teaching the Quran. In the absence of community service, a 10-year prison sentence was proposed.

The court has taken the matter under advisement, with a verdict anticipated on Thursday, June 18, 2026.