HARARE - A Harare man who allegedly raped his neighbour’s teenage daughter while her parents were away has appeared in court.

Thomas Chaunoita, 23, allegedly raped the 19-year-old girl in the bathroom as she tried to run away from him.

Chaunoita last week appeared before magistrate Tendai Mahwe on rape charges.

The court heard in January this year, the girl was home alone washing plates in the kitchen when she suddenly saw Chaunoita behind her. Chaunoita allegedly greeted the girl.

She queried Chaunoita’s purpose of visit.

According to State papers, Chaunoita said he was in love with her, a proposal the girl turned down.

Prosecutor Tungamirai Chakurira told the court that Chaunoita started fondling the girl, who pushed him away and ran into the bathing room. Chaunoita, according to the prosecution chased the girl and forcibly opened the door.

He allegedly removed the girl’s clothes and raped her, the court heard.

It is also alleged the girl grabbed her cellphone and called her father telling him about the rape.

The matter was reported to the police leading to Chaunoita’s arrest.

Magistrate Mahwe released Chaunoita on a $100 bail.

He will be back in court on March 3 for trial. - Ivan Zhakata