Child in Verulam rape trial takes the stand
The child who is said to have been repeatedly raped by her stepfather over several years is now testifying in the Durban High Court.
The girl - who is now 13 - told a neighbour two years ago about what had been happening to her.
Her 45-year-old stepfather's trial began on Monday.
The girl arrived at court in the company of a social worker on Tuesday morning and waited her turn to be called up.
State prosecutor, Cheryl Naidu applied for these proceedings to be heard through an intermediary - who would facilitate the questions posed between the court and the child in the room.
READ: Witness in Verulam rape trial describes claims of abuse
She said this was due to the girl's age and the nature of the evidence.
Naidu also told the court they did not want to cause undue mental stress to the child.
The application was granted, and the media were asked to leave.
Her stepfather yesterday pleaded not guilty to all 56 charges - ranging from rape, sexual exploitation of a child, human trafficking and the creation of child pornography.
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