A 26-year-old man charged with rape has pleaded not guilty before Judge Justice Daniel Goundar.

Onisivoro Barewa is alleged to have raped a 15-year-old girl on 12th April this year in Lami.

State lawyer Sujata Lodhia has informed the court that after they conduct a witness conference they may be reducing the charge to defilement.

Justice Goundar has granted Barewa bail with one surety who has signed a surety bond of $500.

The case has been adjourned to 15th June for mention.