DPP TO CONSOLIDATE DRUG CHARGES

The High Court in Lautoka has granted prosecution the authority to consolidate charges against 13 individuals involved in narcotics cases.

This is the case where more than four tonnes of methamphetamine were seized in Nadi in January.

The 13 accused are businessman Justin Steven Masih Ho, 32, David Otto Heritage, 44, Louie Frank Logaivau, 22, Issac Lesiyanawai, 40, Ratu Aporosa Davelevu, 44, Sakiusa Tuva, 30, An Aviation hangar ground operator Iosefo Roqica, 29, Maika Yabakivou, 27, Ratu Osea Levula, 30, Cathy Tuirabe, 31, Nancy Mateyawa, 29, businessman Jale Aukerea, 42, and Keanie Mcpherson, 29, are all charged with one count of unlawful possession of illicit drugs.

Two accused, Justin Ho and David Heritage, are also charged with unlawful importation of illicit drugs. Additionally, three accused, Justin Ho, Louie Frank Logaivau, and Jale Aukerea, are charged with possession of property suspected of being proceeds of crime.

They were all in remand and appeared before Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge in the Lautoka High Court yesterday.

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) John Rabuku made the application for consolidation.

One of the defence lawyers, Iqbal Khan, initially agreed to the consolidation of charges, others objected.

After moments of debate and discussion, all legal representatives reached a consensus, agreeing on the consolidation.

The court told Mr Rabuku that it must furnish transcripts of the caution interviews to all lawyers representing the accused individuals.

In March 27, the court will undertake a thorough review of the consolidation of charges.

The case was adjourned to March 17 for mention.