Police Officers Charged With Assault of Tailevu Man Bailed

CHARGED, IN COURT

Four Police officers who allegedly assaulted a 32-yearold man from Naqia Village in Wainibuka, Tailevu, by throwing him off a bridge have been granted bail.

Sevanaia Narogi, Kameli Tukana, Mafoa Korosaya and Inoke Nagata appeared before Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne at the Nausori Magistrates Court yesterday.

Female officer Jokaveti Rabuku, who allegedly interfered with prosecution witnesses, also appeared before the court.

It is alleged that on April 14 with intent to grievously harm the victim, Narogi threw him over the bridge.

On the second count of assault causing actual bodily harm, Narogi, Tukana, Korosaya and Nagata allegedly punched and kicked the victim.

Narogi and Tukana, who allegedly slapped the victim, were also charged with one count each of common assault.

Magistrate Shageeth told the accused that they were charged with indictable offences, which would be tried in the High Court. State Prosecutor Sujata Lodhia did not object to their bail and informed the court that they were first offenders.

It was also revealed that the officers are currently on suspension with half salary.

The five officers were released on $500 personal bail bond with two sureties, who were bonded for the same sum. Tukana’s surety, however, was $2000 bail bond.

All accused persons were ordered not to interfere with prosecution witnesses, not to reoffend whilst on bail and to surrender their travel documents to the court.

Their case has been adjourned to July 2.