A young couple from Nausori has appeared in the High Court in Suva, facing serious allegations involving the sexual violation and trafficking of their underage niece. The man is facing two counts of rape, while both he and his wife are charged with domestic trafficking in children, with the charges approved by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The prosecution claims that the couple took their 14-year-old niece to a hotel room in Nausori, where the woman allegedly groomed her before the man sexually assaulted her on two separate occasions. The couple, who pleaded not guilty during their court appearance earlier this month, are now awaiting further proceedings.
During a session on December 11, State prosecutor Zenith Zunaid indicated that he had compiled additional disclosures, including the transcript of the couple’s video-recorded interview, to support the case. Justice Dane Tuiqereqere has granted an extension of the couple’s bail and has scheduled the next hearing for January 22 of the upcoming year.
The seriousness of the charges highlights the ongoing issues of child protection and the need for legal systems to respond effectively to such crimes. This case underlines the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals, especially minors, from exploitation and abuse.
Leave a comment