Leader of Jezreel Lion of Judah Jone Cokanauto has pleaded not guilty to five counts of rape, four counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape before Justice Salesi Temo today.
It is alleged that he committed the offences in Nasinu and Taveuni between 2005 and 2012.
The state will produce 11 witnesses in the rape trial.
The first state witness who is a 30 year old alleged victim, is now taking the stand.
During the course of investigations, Police had confirmed that Jezreel Lion of Judah started about 17 years ago.
A number of young women joined the group as prayer warriors.
Many of these girls left their homes and did not finish their education as they were allegedly promised a better future if they became part of the group.
Many of the girls dropped out of university to join the group.
