Village priest had affair with schoolgirl

samoa – A Catholic priest at on Savai’i has left his village in the wake of an alleged sex scandal there where he was caught sleeping with a Year 13 student.

Vailoa village mayor, Mata’afa Esau Pesaleli, said the incident has left the village in a state of shock.

“What I can tell you is that priest has already left our village, about three weeks now,” Mata’afa said.

“Our people reported to the village council that they caught him several times sleeping with the young girl.”

According to Mata’afa, Catholic church leader immediately removed the priest from Vailoa before the matter could be discussed by the Village Council.

“From what I’ve been told, a senior priest took him. Someone must have told him and he acted immediately. I think he reported the matter to their main office in Apia where I understand he will be dealt with.”

Contacted for a comment, a spokesperson for the Catholic Church said they have no comment to make. He also refused to confirm or deny the allegations.

Mayor Mata’afa said the village council has penalised the family of the young girl involved, as per village protocol.

Mata’afa added they have left the priest to the Catholic church authorities and the police to deal with further.

- Samoa Observer