Bail for Epeli Laqeni, who allegedly killed his de-facto partner in Nakasi between September 3rd and 5th, has been denied by High Court Judge Justice Usaia Ratuvili. Laqeni is charged with one count of murder.
He appeared before High Court Judge Justice Justice Dane Tuiqereqere in a wheelchair.
While reading Justice Ratuvili's ruling, Justice Tuiqereqere says that the court has found that there is an incentive for Laqeni to abscond as he faces a lengthy incarceration if found guilty.
He says Laqeni also does not have suitable sureties. Justice Tuiqereqere also read in court excerpts from another remandee, Alipate Matadigo, who stated that he took care of Laqeni in the infirmary.
Matadigo's affidavit states that there were only 6 beds in the infirmary but 12 inmates.
He said inmates had to alternate using the bed but this was not suitable as Laqeni suffers from hernia.
Justice Tuiqreqere also says that Laqeni failed to provide details of the extent to his injuries.
The matter has been adjourned to the 23rd of this month for plea.
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