A 37-year-old man has been remanded in Police custody by a magistrate Court sitting in Isiopko, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The suspect is standing trial for allegedly using a knife to threaten and rape of 16-years-old girl.
Chief Magistrate, RN Ibanibo had held that the court lacks jurisdiction to hear the matter and ordered that the case file be referred to Director of Public Prosecution for legal Advice.
The Magistrate also ruled that since Correctional Facilities do not accept inmates due to the coronavirus pandemic, the suspect should be remanded at police holding cell and A
Adjourned the matter to 27th July for advice.
Daba Ikat, a representative of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA explained that the offence is punishable under section 358 of criminal code of 1999 constitution, adding that the organisation will ensure that justice is served.
