The Director of Public Prosecutions Office has today informed the Lautoka High Court that they would be withdrawing the manslaughter charge laid against the 8 police officers and 1 soldier in relation to the death of Vilikesa Soko.
The state counsel has informed the court that they will go ahead with the rape charge laid against Manasa Talala, Seruvi Caqusau,
Kelevi Sewatu, Penaia Drauna, Filise Vere, Viliame Vereivalu, Jona Davonu, Senitiki Natakasavu and Pita Matairavula.
Soko died in police custody in August 2014.
The reason for the planned withdrawal of the manslaughter charge has not been revealed by the DPP’s Office.
All accused persons were present in court today except Jona Davonu who is remanded in custody in Suva for another matter.
In addition, Manasa Talala and Viliame Vereivalu are also charged with attempting to defeat the course of justice by instructing other police officers to make false statements.
The defence asked for seven days from the court for plea on the amended information at the next mention date.
The matter has been adjourned to 5th November to fix a trial date.
Bail is extended for all accused persons in this matter.
Meanwhile a police officer and a soldier who are charged with allegedly unlawfully and indecently assaulting Iowane Benedito in November 2012, are also facing charges in relation to the death of Vilikesa Soko.
They are Police officer, Jona Davonu and soldier, Pita Matairavula.
This is in relation to the video brutality case.
The others charged in the case are police officers Sanita Laqenasici and Semesa Naduka while Filimone Catimaibulu is from the RFMF.
Pita Matairavula whose whereabouts was unknown until today, will be produced in court once he has been located.
