Two more drink driving accused front court
Two more people were presented before a special court sitting yesterday facing drunk driving related charges. They were allegedly involved in separate incidents that took place last Saturday.
SUVA MAGISTRATES COURT
Ratu Jese Rinakama appeared before Magistrate Jioji Boseiwaqa charged with drunk driving. However, Magistrate Boseiwaqa recused himself from the case because he knew Rinakama. Magistrate Boseiwaqa adjourned the case to be heard before Chief Magistrate Usaia Ratuvili today. He also told Rinakama that he would then be able to apply for bail. Prosecution, however, told Magistrate Boseiwaqa that they would be objecting to bail because it was a drunk driving matter. It is alleged that Rinakama, a farmer at Makoi, Nasinu, was found drunk and driving along Waimanu Road in Suva by a Police officer last Saturday. Rinakama has been further remanded in custody.
LAUTOKA MAGISTRATES COURT
Anasa Bogi pleaded guilty to four counts of giving false information to public servants, one count to fail to undergo breathalyzer test, one count of driving without a valid driver’s licence and one count driving without a third-party insurance policy. He appeared before Magistrate Raramasi Salakubou. The court heard that Bogi was arrested last Saturday at around 2am. He understood the four count charges and opted for a Legal Aid representation. He also admitted to the charges and pleaded guilty. Constable Shelvin Sharma, who represented the Police, asked the court for Bogi to be remanded in custody because of the serious nature of the offence.
In mitigation Bogi asked forgiveness from the court, is a sole bread winner and lives with his parents. Magistrate Salakubou told Bogi about the difference between a valid driving licence and a valid learner’s permit. Bogi was released on $500 bail. He will re-appear on April 18 for sentencing.