The trial of a 38-year-old man facing one count of rape started in the Suva High court today.

The handyman of daycare in Suva is alleged to have raped a three-year-old girl who attends the Day Care, where he was employed.

It’s alleged the offence occurred in August, last year when the accused called the victim to a secluded area at the school premises and indecently assaulted her.

The matter was reported by the victim’s mother after the young girl complained of genital pain.

The accused claims that during the time of the alleged incident he was not present at the daycare.

The prosecution will present five witnesses including the victim and her mother among others.

The trial is set for this week.