A 27 year old man charged with 12 counts of rape appeared in Labasa court this afternoon.

It is alleged that the farmer raped an 18 year old woman who was sickly.

It is alleged that the cane farmer told the 18 year old that he can cure her through spiritual intervention and the 27 year old allegedly raped her on a number of occasions over a two week period.

The farmer asked for bail in court today which was strongly objected by the prosecution on the grounds that there was tension in the community and the farmer had a number of bench warrants.

The case has been adjourned till tomorrow when a ruling on bail is expected to be made.


Story by: Praneeta Deo