Five men charged with the murder of Sione Feimoefiafi (49) had their cases adjourned to April 22, after they were called this morning at the Fasi Magistrate's Court in Nuku'alofa.

However, the accused named as Konai Bloomfield, Vilaketi Bloomfield, Sione Bloomfield, Siafa Nai and Tangi Tiufilusi Nai did not appear at the lower court. 

A Police escort at the Court said the police had requested that the accused five not be brought in to the courthouse, so as to avoid any mishap happening. The Court was full this morning with many people and prisoners appearing on various criminal charges. 

The Director for Public Prosecutions ‘Aminiasi Kefu who represented th Crown submitted for the adjournment to allow for the distribution of documents to parties.

Meanwhile, the accused who remain in custody are charged with the murder of Feimoefiafi, who was beaten at and outside the Tali’eva Bar on February 4.  The beating, which allegedly started in a brawl at the bar, occurred in broad daylight in the Nuku’alofa CBD.

Feimoefiafi passed away at Vaiola Hospital later that night from his fatal injuries. From Puke and Portland, USA, he was visiting family in Tonga when this tragedy occurred.