Melbourne Court Hears Case of Teen Allegedly Abducting Girl, 17, for Marriage

An 18-year-old male, identified as Ayom Deng, has been arraigned before the Melbourne Magistrates Court following allegations that he kidnapped a 17-year-old girl outside her school. The charges suggest his intention was to compel her into marriage against her wishes, according to various local media outlets.

Deng was taken into custody by police at 10 a.m. local time on Wednesday, July 1, and subsequently appeared in court later that same day, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Authorities informed news agencies that the incident took place on Friday, June 26, around 8:30 a.m. The 17-year-old victim was reportedly entering Keysborough Secondary College in Melbourne when a male approached her, forcibly put her into a vehicle, and then drove away from the scene.

It is alleged that Deng, who was out on bail at the time of the incident, was the driver of the vehicle. He faces multiple charges, including abduction, kidnapping, false imprisonment, and committing an indictable offence while on bail. Court documents, cited by Australian news outlets, specifically state that Deng is accused of abducting the teenage girl "with the intent of marrying … without her consent" and detaining her "against her will." Furthermore, the ABC noted that the 18-year-old also faces a charge of driving on a highway without a valid driver's licence or permit.

Deng's defense counsel informed the court that their client has been diagnosed with PTSD and is considered vulnerable due to his age and appearance, adding that this was not his initial time in custody. Deng chose not to apply for bail and has been remanded. His next court appearance is scheduled for September.

In connection with the same case, a 15-year-old boy has also been charged with abduction and is slated to appear in a children's court on a future date.