Radio NZ
July 16 2007; 12:32

Hearing begins for man accused of violating, suffocating niece

A depositions hearing is underway in Christchurch where a man stands accused of the murder and sexual assault of his 10-year-old neice.

George Evan Gwaze (Gwa-zay) was arrested earlier this year following the death of Charlene Makaza.

The girl died in hospital where she was taken after being found unconscious in her bedroom, and a post mortem showed she died of asphyxiation.

Medical staff alerted police after finding Charlene had severe anal injuries.

Subsequent DNA testing on her clothing found semen belonging to her uncle George Gwaze.

The crown says Mr Gwaze violated the girl and then suffocated her - he denies the charges