A court in Busan, South Korea, on Wednesday sentenced two employees of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) to nine years in prison each for sexual assault, local media report.

Moses Owen Brown and Daniel Tarr had been detained in South Korea since last year for allegedly raping two Korean teenagers, according to Korean police.

The Liberian government said it has requested its legal representation in South Korea to furnish it with the various appeal options available.

“The government shall continue to remain engaged with the Republic of Korea through official diplomatic channels to explore many options which may be available to Browne and Tarr,” a government statement said.

It said the families of the two Liberians have been notified of the court decision and will be facilitated to visit the men.