Court

Mother alleged to have raped own child granted bail

March 12, 2019 4:50 pm

A 35-year-old woman alleged to have raped her biological three-year-old daughter was released on bail by the Suva High court this afternoon.

She was bailed on strict conditions including a 24-hour curfew imposed on her.

The prosecution has requested for 21 days to file information.

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The defense described the case as a rushed prosecution.

The defense lawyer told the court the medical report is inconclusive of sexual acts and a follow up medical examination was to have been carried out.

He said the accused took her three-year-old daughter to the Samabula Health center on January 11th this year after complaining of stomach ache.

The matter was then referred to the CWM hospital before the Social Welfare Department stepped in and took the matter to police.

The High court Judge said no parent would take their child to the hospital if they were sexually assaulting them.

The Judge also raised queries about how the matter was referred to the police.

The court was told the three-year-old victim has been removed from her home and placed into a welfare home.

The matter has been adjourned to the 26th of this month for a plea.