A human rights lawyer has vowed to fight for justice after a mother and her young daughter were allegedly assaulted and unlawfully detained by employees of a foreign-owned retail business in Madang over a disputed bag of rice. Laken Lepatu Aigilo, the lawyer representing the victims, confirmed that six individuals—including three Chinese nationals and three employees —have been criminally charged with Serious Assault and Unlawful Deprivation of Liberty. The accused made their first appearance at the Madang Committal Court on Monday, with police confirming that investigations have been completed. “This was a case of gross injustice,” Aigilo said. “The mother and daughter did not steal anything. They had a valid receipt for a 5kg bag of rice, but were still accused, assaulted, and unlawfully locked up. The evidence is clear—from medical reports to video footage.” Aigilo said that if convicted, the accused could each face up to six years in prison. While police are pursuing the criminal case, Aigilo is preparing to file a human rights suit in the Waigani National Court on behalf of the victims. The case will be brought against the six individuals and their employers—Yaho Investment Ltd. “Our Constitution protects all citizens from inhuman and degrading treatment. What happened to this mother and child was not only unlawful—it was unconstitutional,” said Aigilo. The human rights application will rely on several provisions of the Constitution, including: Section 42 – Protection from unlawful deprivation of liberty Section 41 – Protection from harsh, oppressive, or unwarranted acts Section 36 – Protection from inhuman treatment According to Aigilo, the Human Rights Track in the National Court allows individuals to enforce these rights directly, and he is confident the civil case will result in a significant compensation order. “Based on precedent, we expect compensation to exceed K100,000. The companies involved must be held accountable through the principle of vicarious liability—when employees act unlawfully in the course of their duties, the employer is liable.” The lawyer also confirmed that his firm has formally taken on the case and is providing both legal and financial support to the victims. The young girl is now in a safe house, and K1,000 has been given to the mother to assist with basic needs while the legal process unfolds. “We are committed to pursuing this case professionally and without fear,” said Aigilo. "Our goal is not just justice for our clients, but a legal precedent that sends a clear message—violations of human rights will not go unpunished.” He further called on the court to impose strict bail conditions on the accused to prevent interference with state witnesses and said he trusts the police will ensure the victims’ ongoing safety. “This is a test of our justice system’s integrity,” Aigilo added. "Let us not forget: the rule of law protects the weak from the powerful. And in this case, the law will speak.”