A 35-year-old step father charged with 13 counts of rape was today refused bail by Labasa Magistrate Penijamini Lomoloma after objection from the Police Prosecutor due to the seriousness of the offence.

It is alleged that the 35-year-old raped his step daughter on several occasions beginning from 20th October 2007 to 10th January this year.

The man was taken into custody on Sunday afternoon, after close family members caught the father allegedly raping his daughter.

No plea was taken as the 35-year-old man is seeking Legal Aid representation.

The man has been remanded in custody and the case has been adjourned till the 4th of February.