Christian Solidarity Worldwide says the recent rape and murder of a seven-year-old girl demonstrates the “culture of impunity” reigning throughout Burma’s military regime.

The girl is believed to have been shot and killed by a government soldier in the village of Ma Oo Bin in Karen State, north Burma, on December 27. The girl’s parents and village leaders reported the case to the local commanding officer but no action has been taken, in spite of eye witnesses coming forward.

CSW is supporting calls from the Karen Women’s Organisation for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrator, and for action against the commanding officer for failing to act.

“Rape is systematic and widespread, used as a weapon of war by the Burma Army throughout the country,” said CSW’s national director, Stuart Windsor.

“This latest tragic case is an example of the culture of impunity reigning throughout the military regime.

“We strongly support the KWO’s call for the arrest and prosecution of those guilty of the murder and rape of this young child.”

CSW added that the Burma regime was “guilty of a wide range of crimes against humanity” which should be investigated and brought before the International Criminal Court.