28 Oct 2019

Samoan minister facing rape and sexual connection charges

4:52 pm on 28 October 2019

A Methodist church minister in Samoa is facing eight charges, including rape and sexual connection, in relation to a girl under 16 years of age, who was living with his family.

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Photo: RNZI/ Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia

The accused's name suppression was lifted by the court today after the prosecution confirmed the victim is not related to the accused, Tugia Tuli'au.

The alleged offences took place in a village where Mr Tuli'au has been serving as a church minister.

The case has been adjourned for the accused to engage a lawyer before he enters a plea.

Meanwhile, an arrest warrant has been issued for a woman in her 40s, who faces a grievous bodily harm charge relating to the alleged burning of her husband.

The accused failed to appear when the matter was called today for the prosecution to finalise her charges.

She is also likely to face an attempted murder charge.