Boys (13) on rape charges

Two 13-year old boys have appeared in a juvenile court in Belfast in connection with the rape of a woman who was attacked in …

Two 13-year old boys have appeared in a juvenile court in Belfast in connection with the rape of a woman who was attacked in a park.

The teenagers, who cannot be named for legal reasons, spoke only once during the brief court hearing to confirm they understood the charges against them.

The victim was attacked and subjected to a serious sexual assault as she walked through Woodvale Park last Monday. The two were charged with robbing her of £40 (€59) at knife-point and causing her grievous bodily harm.

One is also accused of raping her and attempting to rape her. The other has been charged with attempted rape, aiding and abetting rape and making threats to kill. They were remanded in custody until January 3rd.