Nadi footballer granted bail on rape, abduction charges

A Nadi footballer on rape and abduction charges was bailed at the High Court in Lautoka today.

Sahil Thomas Valentine appeared before Justice Riyaz Hamza. He is charged with two counts of rape and one count of abduction involving two complainants aged 17 and 18.

The prosecution alleges the offences occurred in Nadi between May 18 and 19 after the group had allegedly been drinking together.

Valentine is represented by Anil Prasad, while the State is represented by Shreta Prakash.

Justice Hamza granted bail in the sum of $1,000, with two sureties of $2,000 each.

As part of his bail conditions, Valentine must report to the Nadi Police Station on two Saturdays each month, surrender his passport to the court and comply with a stop departure order.

He is also prohibited from approaching, contacting or interfering with any prosecution witnesses.

In addition, Valentine must attend all scheduled court mention and trial dates, be of good behaviour and not commit any offence while on bail.

The court warned that any breach of the bail conditions could result in the cancellation of bail, the issuance of a warrant for his arrest and his return to custody.