A man accused of sexually molesting his 14-year-old niece was granted bail when the matter was mentioned in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court on Wednesday.

The accused man was arrested after a teacher at the girl's school reported the molestation to the police.

The teacher allegedly became aware of the abuse which had been going on for a number of weeks after reading an essay written by the child.

The court was told that the child was in the care of the accused from she was six years old. It was alleged that during that time, he pressured the complainant repeatedly for sex. It is further alleged that at the time of the first sexual encounter, the accused used a pillow to cover the child's face and fondled her before having sex with her.

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However, the accused's attorney pointed out that the incidents allegedly took place four years ago. In addition he said that when the child was questioned, she said it was not actually her uncle who sexually molested her.

After listening to both sides, Senior Resident Magistrate Glen Brown granted the accused $50,000 bail with surety and the condition that he do not go near the complainant. In addition his fingerprints were also ordered taken.

The matter is to return to court on June 12.