Tu'ilakepa case adjourned to February [1]
Monday, January 16, 2012 - 21:50. Updated on Monday, September 9, 2013 - 18:40.
LORD Tu'ilakepa, a former Speaker and a current Vava'u Nobles' Representative to the Tonga Legislature, appeared at the Magistrate's Court today, January 16, on charges of illegal possession of firearms, ammunitions and an illicit drug.
The case was adjourned yet again to February 15 when he will appear in closed chambers to decide whether the case will proceed with a Preliminary Inquiry at the Magistrate's Court, or be submitted directly to the Supreme Court for trial.
The Magistrate's Court office in Nuku'alofa stated that the noble appeared before Magistrate Similoni Tu'akalau in an open court, represented by counsel Mana Kaufusi with 'Aminiasi Kefu representing the Crown.
Lord Tu'ilakepa is charged with numerous counts, including possession of illegal firearms, possession of illegal ammunition and possession of an illicit drug.
The noble has also been jointly charged with four other accused in relation to the illicit drug offence. The four accused are Sione Vakapuna, Walter Kami, Taniela Taumoepeau and Tevita Mahe.