On trial for allegedly raping girl

By GLORIA BAUAI
A MAGISTRATE in Lae has reminded parents to watch their children at big events when presiding over the case of a 10-year-old girl who was raped at a church gathering.
Magistrate Pious Tapil said some people who attended such events had bad intentions.
He said this on Wednesday when committing 18-year-old Mathias John in the Lae Committal Court to the National Court for the alleged rape of the minor at a church fellowship event last year.
“The court notes that this particular case could have been avoided if parents were vigilant and kept a look out for the safety of their child,” he said.
“A reminder to all church goers or attendants for such gatherings, be cautious for the safety of your children – there are others like the defendant here who go there with ulterior motives; things like this can be prevented if parents keep a close watch.”
According to police, John from Minimap village, Markham, allegedly chased the victim, pulled her into the dark, covered her mouth, removed her clothes and raped.
Police said the offence took place on Sept 26 at Noah CMF church in Huon Gulf between 6.30pm and 7pm while the girl was waiting with her family for drop off.
Police reported that the girl suffered injuries to her private parts and was bleeding and told her parents what had happened when she returned home.
She was rushed to Mutzing Health Centre at Markham, but, due to the seriousness of her injuries, was referred to Angau Memorial Hospital where she underwent an operation and was hospitalised for two weeks.
Magistrate Tapil said the medical report showed that she had sustained bleeding from perennial vaginal tears which had to be mended.
Based on court findings, there was sufficient evidence to prove the elements of the charge.
John is remanded at Buimo.
His next hearing is on Feb 7.