BUTTERWORTH: A 37-year-old salesman claimed trial at a Sessions Court here to the charge of raping a 13-year-old girl.

The offence was allegedly committed at a shopping complex in Prai near here at about 3pm on Dec 12, last year.

Cheah Teow Huat from Taman Alma Ria, Bukit Mertajam was charged under Section 376(2)(D) of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum jail term of 30 years and whipping upon conviction.

He also claimed trial to a second charge of committing sexual intercourse against the order of nature without consent by inserting his finger into the victim's private parts.

The charges were read out before Judge Noor Aini Yusof.

DPP Nazratul Natrah Mohd Yusuf appeared for the prosecution, while P. Latsmanan acted for the defence.

The court fixed Sept 3 for mention and set bail at RM18,000 for both charges.