Court denies bail for accused on multiple murder charges

Judge says he has no history of absconding bail.

The High Court in Suva has denied bail for a 47-yearold man charged with multiple counts of murder.

Saimum Dean appeared before Justice Daniel Goundar via Skype at the Labasa High Court. He is charged with one count of arson, four counts of murder and one count of attempted murder.

Justice Goundar said the circumstances and nature of the allegations were serious and the prosecution’s case was strong. Justice Goundar said there was some evidence of community tension at Benau where the alleged incident occurred and that crucial prosecution witnesses were from the community. “Although the accused has no history of absconding bail, serious charges against him arose while he was on bail on an illicit drug charge,” he said.

The case continues.