A 37-year-old man who impregnated his 12-year-old niece was denied bail by the Magistrates Court in Labasa yesterday.

The man charged with one count of rape appeared before Magistrate Bimsara Jagodage.

He opted to engage counsel from Legal Aid Commission.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Laniana Musuqawa objected to bail because it was domestic violence in nature and there was breach of trust.

She highlighted the need to transfer the case to the High Court since it was an indictable offence and of public interest.

The victim has been staying with the accused and her grandmother since her parents passed away.

The accused allegedly committed the offence sometime in October last year.

The matter came to light when the victim complained of having a stomach ache and was taken to the Seaqaqa Health Station where the pregnancy was confirmed.

The victim was placed in the care of Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre staff.

Magistrate Jagodage remanded the accused in custody and advised him to make his bail application at the High Court.

He told the Police to escort the accused to Legal Aid Commission to make necessary arrangements.

The case has been adjourned for mention on May 18 at High Court in Labasa. 

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