The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption has withdrawn the charges laid against former Police Commissioner Crime Josaia Rasiga and businessman Abas Ali.

High Court Judge Justice John Byrne this afternoon granted leave to the state to withdraw the charges against Rasiga and Ali after an application was made.

Speaking soon after the hearing, State Lawyer Adish Narayan confirmed that the proceedings in the case will now be terminated and the case filed by Rasiga and Ali challenging the legality of FICAC can not go ahead through this case.

Narayan also stressed that the decision to withdraw is not based on lack of evidence but a logistical decision by FICAC and the two could still face charges in the future. He said if the parties wish to continue to challenge the legality of FICAC they must file a fresh case. According to Narayan Rasiga and Ali are not permitted by the High Court judge to peruse civil action against FICAC for laying charges against them.

Defence counsels Greaham Lueng and Mehboob Raza refused to comment on the matter.

Rasiga and Ali were earlier charged by FICAC with official corruption which led to Rasiga suspension from the Fiji Police Force earlier this year.