Accused granted permission to live with father on Gau

A23-year-old rape accused had his bail conditions changed at the Suva High Court yesterday to enable him to travel to Gau to live with his father.

He appeared before Judge Justice Daniel Goundar. He was represented by Legal Aid lawyer, Lice Manulevu.

The complainant is 22 years old and the incident is alleged to have occurred in Cunningham on January 1.

The case was called to check if the accused was complying with his 24 hour curfew which was imposed by the Court.

This was confirmed by his surety who said that he was complying.

Ms Manulevu said the accused wanted to live with his father and was stuck in Suva during the lockdown after visiting his mother.

The court heard that the litigation issue was consent.

Justice Goundar asked how the accused would attend his cases if he ws in the village to which he said there are fibreglass boats that come to Viti Levu daily.

His surety also assured the court that she would pay for the accused’s boat fare for him to attend his court dates.

Ms Manulevu also stated that letting the accused go to Gau would be in his best interest and security.

Accordingly, Justice Goundar relaxed the 24 hour curfew against the accused after State Prosecutor Kimberly Semisi did not have any objections to it.

His case has been adjourned to October 2 for mention.

Ms Manulevu also stated that letting the accused go to Gau would be in his best interest and security.