Man accused of imprisoning and raping woman over period of days

Jonathon White, 40, was also allegedly armed with a knife and inflicted serious physical injury during the suspected ordeal.

He was arrested by detectives investigating a reported incident in the city earlier this week.

White, of Dismas House Hostel on the Ormeau Road, appeared at Belfast Magistrates’ Court today charged with nine related offences.

He faces three counts of rape, a further sexual assault and possessing an offensive weapon with intent. White is also accused of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, non-fatal strangulation, false imprisonment and an additional charge of threats to kill.

The alleged offences were all committed on dates between August 19 and August 25.

Handcuffed and dressed in a grey tracksuit as he entered the dock, the defendant confirmed he understood the charges against him.

An investigating detective said he could connect him to the alleged offences but disclosed no further details about the circumstances.

White has also been charged with three counts of burglary in a separate case. A defence lawyer told the court he was not seeking bail at this stage.

District Judge Steven Keown remanded White in custody until September 23