July sees rise in rape and suicide, decline in women and child abuse: MSF

The total number of women and child abuse cases decreased to 306 in July, compared to 320 in June. While 68 rape cases were reported in June, the number rose to 90 in July.

Similarly, suicide cases increased from 17 to 28. Sexual harassment and molestation also rose slightly from 21 to 22 cases.

The Human Rights Culture Foundation (MSF) published these findings in its July 2026 monitoring report on violence against women, children, drugs and online gambling on Friday. The report presented a comparative analysis of incidents in June and July.

According to the report, while women and child abuse cases decreased compared to June, serious crimes such as rape and suicide have increased at an alarming rate. During the same period, law enforcement agencies intensified operations against online gambling and drugs, but allegations of police involvement in drug trafficking raised new questions.

MSF stated that although the total number of incidents has decreased, the nature of violence is becoming more complex and concerning. The high rates of rape and suicide particularly point to insecurity among women and children, social pressure and a culture of impunity.

The report also noted that gang rape cases decreased from 16 to 7, murder after rape from 5 to 3, physical abuse from 56 to 42, and murder from 76 to 52. Abduction and disappearance cases increased marginally from 12 to 13, while acid attacks remained at one case in both months.

Three criminal cases were resolved through local arbitration in July, including two attempted rape cases and one rape case. MSF observed that settling such serious crimes through arbitration reflects a lack of trust in the judicial system and encourages a culture of impunity.

No deaths or injuries were reported in online gambling-related incidents in July, but 10 people were arrested, compared to no arrests in June. MSF noted that this indicates increased law enforcement activity.

However, the report also highlighted that the spread of online gambling is increasing economic exploitation, domestic violence, mental health crises and cybercrime risks among the youth.