Jurors today acquitted six of the seven men charged with multiple offences relating to the riots of November 16, 2006, in the first group trial at the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court.

Only one of the men Kupufonua Folau of Mataika, was found guilty and that was on a charge of housebreaking. Folau was acquitted of three other charges of attending a riotous assembly, damaging property and arson.

The jurors of seven men delivered their verdict after deliberating since Friday, October 26.

The seven men were charged with offences ranging from attending a riotous assembly at Pangai Si'i to housebreaking, arson, and the damaging of private and government properties. They are 'Epeli 'Anitema of Nukuknuku; Kupufonua Folau of Mataika; Lafitani Tafolo of 'Anana; Laukau Pongia of Halaleva; Mapele Talatala of Nukunuku; Steven Tafolo of 'Anana; and 'Aisea 'Ali of Halaleva.

They were accused of destroying properties including Molisi Tonga Supermarket, Chinese Shops at Kolomotu'a, and at Hala Lelue, the TCF Supermarket, and the Tungi Arcade Building. Properties that were partially damaged included the Prime Minister's Office and the Treasury.

Chief Justice Anthony Ford after hearing the jurors' verdict discharged all accused except for Folau who was ordered to appear in court on December 7 for sentencing on the charge of housebreaking.

The trial began on October 10 with 'Aminiasi Kefu as the Crown Prosecutor and Mana Kaufusi and 'Ofa Pouono representing the accused.