Carpenter, 26, denies rape and sex offence charges

A carpenter, 26, who allegedly raped a 16-year-old in Nasinu on May 14, has denied committing the offence. He appeared before Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge at the High Court in Suva. He is charged with one count of sexual assault and two counts of rape.

The complainant in the matter the accused’s neighbour.

Prosecutor, Wakesa Elo, told the court that there were no admissions in the caution interview statement of the accused. She also sought time to sort out the pre-trial issues. The case was adjourned to September 17. The accused’s bail was extended.

Ashna Kumar

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