Taxi driver remanded in alleged rape case

A taxi driver appeared before the High Court in Suva last Friday charged with the alleged rape of a 24-year-old woman who was intoxicated and unconscious in his taxi.

Ronil Kumar appeared before Justice Daniel Goundar charged with one count of rape.

The court heard the accused had allegedly picked the victim up from a nightclub and taken her to a secluded place where the offence allegedly occurred.

State prosecutor Naazish Ali told the court the victim woke up and saw the driver on top of her with his pants down.

Ms Ali said two Police officers on patrol responded to the victim’s report and took her to the nearest Police station where a complaint was lodged.

She said bruises were found on the victim’s hands, red marks on her neck, and there were signs of recent sexual activity.

The State is objecting to the accused’s bail application.

The Legal Aid Commission informed the court it had recently received Kumar’s application and required time to review the case.

The State has been given until March 30 to file information and disclosures.

Kumar has been remanded in custody and will appear again on April 13 for mention.