The mother of a 16-year-old girl allegedly raped by a man on a number of occasions will give evidence in his trial.
Besides the mother, the State will also call the victim and her aunt to testify at the High Court in Suva.
Defence lawyer Joji Cakau yesterday informed Justice Dane Tuiqereqere he intends to only call one witness, the 40-year-old accused.
The rape accused, who is married with three children, is facing nine sexual offence charges.
The man, a serving police officer who was sent on leave pending court proceedings, allegedly committed the offences against his cousin on different occasions between 2019 and 2024.
Justice Tuiqereqere has granted the State’s application for the trial to proceed in a closed court, for the victim’s name to be suppressed, for the use of a screen and a female translator.
Mr Cakau did not object to the application.
Both parties have agreed for a three-day trial.
The accused had his bail extended and the case was adjourned to May 13.
