NO BAIL FOR TAVEUNI MAN
FACING MURDER CHARGE
Divisional Police prosecutor Northern, Inspector Subramani Naidu, strongly objected against bail for Josese Bale because tension from the victim’s family was high.
The accused, charged with one count of murder, appeared yesterday before Magistrate Cama Tuberi in the Labasa Magistrate Court.
It is alleged that Bale stabbed his wife on June 10, 2018 at their home in Somosomo, Taveuni, after an argument. Representing Bale is Legal Aid lawyer, Esala Radio.
Inspector Naidu reminded the court that the victim was the wife of the accused and a mother to four children.
“The community where they reside is where the wife was from and is surrounded by her family. The tension in the community is very high right now and therefore bail should not be granted for Bale’s own safety,” Inspector Naidu told the court.
“The case should be transferred to the High Court because this is a serious offence.”
Mr Radio also told the court that he has informed the accused about the charges against him and that it was an indictable offence.
Magistrate Tuberi asked the accused if he was aware of the charges laid against him. Bale said he did.
“The prosecutor is objecting to your bail because of the seriousness of the offence. He has also stated that the victim was your wife and a mother of four. You will remain in custody and will appear in high court for mention,” Magistrate Tuberi said. “You will only be able to apply for bail at the High Court. You will be in remand till the next date for you to appear in court.” The accused will appear in the High Court in Labasa on June 27, 2018 for mention.