The five men who were taken into custody in relation to the alleged murder of a 49 year old security officer in Savusavu have been charged with murder, robbery with violence and breaking and larceny.

Police spokesperson Atunaisa Sokomuri confirmed that the five are appearing in the Labasa court at this hour.

The five are charged for the alleged murder of 49 year old security officer Sheik Mohammad Hassan of Savusavu, who was providing security at a sawmill compound when masked men armed with cane knives and pinch bars attacked him.

They allegedly tied his hands and legs and assaulted him.

The robbers then walked away with $12,000 cash and other items.

Meanwhile, a 37 year old father of Ovalau is in police custody for allegedly raping his 14 year old daughter and also for allegedly indecently assaulting his 14 year old niece.

The matter was reported by the niece to a relative who then took it to the police.

The daughter also reported the matter to police that she was raped by her father.

The girl was staying with them to attend school when he allegedly indecently assaulted his niece.