The High Court in Lautoka has acquitted a man charged with the rape of his 34-year-old grandniece. Court documents indicate that the alleged incident took place on June 4, three years ago, at a graveyard in the village. The case came to light when two boys inquired about a situation she had experienced in the bush, during which she revealed that she had been raped by her granduncle.
Justice Sunil Sharma, in his ruling, remarked that the complainant appeared to be comfortable in the presence of the accused. He stated, “It is unsafe to convict the accused, and therefore, the benefit of the doubt ought to be given to him.” He further explained that the court was not convinced beyond a reasonable doubt of the man’s guilt regarding the allegations against him.
Justice Sharma noted that the complainant had given her consent freely and voluntarily, with the necessary mental capacity to do so. He concluded that there was reasonable doubt in the prosecution’s case, leading the court to acquit the accused of both charges filed against him.