How has the number of child sexual assaults by family members changed?

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The Number of Child Sexual Assaults by Family Members Has Increased

In Singapore, cases of sexual assault involving children under 16 have seen an upward trend, with a notable increase in incidents perpetrated by family members or relatives. Police figures indicate a rise in both the overall number of child sexual assault cases and those specifically linked to individuals within the victim's family circle. This escalation suggests a growing concern regarding the safety of children within domestic environments.
Cases Involving Family Members Show an Upward Trajectory

The number of alleged sexual assaults committed by family members or relatives has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2025, there were 192 such cases, an increase from 184 in 2024 and 169 in 2023. This consistent rise highlights a persistent issue where children are victimised by those they should be able to trust the most.
Overall Child Sexual Assault Cases Have Also Risen

Beyond cases involving family members, the total number of sexual assaults against children under 16 has also seen an increase. In 2025, police recorded 1,031 such cases, up from 943 in 2024 and 998 in 2023. This broader trend indicates a concerning pattern of child sexual victimisation within the community.
Experts Highlight the Profound Impact of Family Perpetration

Psychologists emphasise that sexual assault by a family member can inflict deeper and more lasting harm than assaults by strangers. This is due to the profound betrayal of trust, which can significantly impair a child's ability to form healthy relationships and trust others in the future. The home, typically a safe haven, becomes a source of fear and trauma when the abuser is a known caregiver.

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How has the number of child sexual assaults by family members changed?

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