A YOUNG man accused of trespassing into a house and carrying an eight-year-old girl to the seaside in Ngella, Central Islands Province, where he allegedly raped her, has denied the allegations.
The defendant who could not be named to protect the identity of the alleged victim is facing one count of Rape and one count of Criminal Trespass.
He pleaded not guilty to the charges when he appeared before Principal Magistrate Michael Fagani yesterday.
His lawyer, Sylvia Pitamama of the Public Solicitor’s Office, proposed a short form preliminary inquiry (committal hearing) which will be conducted on the next court date.
A bail application will also be made at that time.
The defendant was remanded in custody to await his next court appearance.
According to the allegation, on the night of June 1 this year, between 12am and 5am, the defendant trespassed to where the victim was sleeping and carried her towards the sea side.
On the way, the victim realized she was being carried by someone and she recognized the defendant.
She cried out for help, but he allegedly covered her mouth with his hands.
At the seaside, the defendant allegedly raped the victim.
She cried for help, but no one was around. The victim later managed to escape and ran home.
The defendant chased her, but could not catch up with her.
When she reached home, she informed her aunty, who reported the matter to police.
The victim was later medically examined, and the defendant was arrested and charged.
Public Prosecutor Jeremy Oiofa appeared for the Crown on instructions from his colleague Herrick Lautalo.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
