Trial date set for man charged with rape and murder of Nigerian sex worker Jessica Nkechi McGraa in Aberdeen

A trial date has been set for man charged with the rape and murder of Nigerian woman. Bala Chinda is accused of killing 36-year-old Jessica Nkechi McGraa at a Union Terrace flat in Aberdeen on February 11. Prosecutors claimed the 25 year-old forced her on to a bed, held her down and had sex with her.

The rape and murder charge further alleges he "inflicted blunt force trauma" to her head and neck before forcing the 36-year-old's face into a pillow.

Chinda reportedly held her face there and as a result, or "by other means to the prosecutor unknown", asphyxiated Ms McGraa.

He faces a separate accusation of attempting to defeat the ends of justice. It is claimed Chinda stole two phones and a key from Ms McGraa after the alleged rape and murder. The charge states he got rid of the mobiles as well as a handset he is said to have used to contact Ms McGraa.

Prosecutors claim this was done to "conceal and destroy evidence" linking Chinda to Ms McGraa and the crime.

Ian Duguid QC, defending, pleaded not guilty on his behalf during a short hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on Monday, June 13.

At the High Court in Glasgow, Judge Lady Rae set a trial due to begin in December. The case could last up to ten days.

Source: STV/BBC/Aberdeen News