The second group trial of seven defendants charged in relation to the destruction in Nuku'alofa during the November 16 riots entered its seventh day today as the examination of witnesses continues.

The accused who consist of six men and one woman are facing multiple offences from attending a riotous assembly at Pangai Si...’i to housebreaking, the damaging and destruction of private and government properties and vehicles.

They are Siuta Ngahe of Pea, Timote Pekipaki of Vaini, Mekiloni Fotu of Navutoka, Nikolasi Fiu of Hofoa, Fiula 'Atuhekaho of Ma'ufanga, and married couple, Tavake and Taufa Tafolo of Halaleva.

The jury trial that began on November 12 is expected to run until next week. Crown Prosecutor ...‘Aminiasi Kefu this morning examined his 17th witness, leaving six more to be called.

Carton of beer

Lance Corporal Sione Tu...’ipulotu of the Tonga Police Band told the court that on November 16, 2006, he was stationed at Pangai Si...’i at 9:00am.

He said that around 11:00am that morning he saw the accused Siuta Ngahe present at the meeting, and he knew him well because they went to school together at Lavengamalie College.

He added that in the afternoon as rioters moved and trashed Molisi Tonga Supermarket, he saw Siuta on the supermarket...’s verandah carrying a carton of beer.

After being shown photographs of the scene at Molisi the witness identified Siuta to be wearing a white singlet and a hat, the same outfit, he recalled him wearing earlier that morning at the meeting at Pangai Si...’i.

The witness also singled out the accused in court.

Crown witnesses

The Crown who is calling over 20 witnesses is expected to finish on Wednesday, November 28. However, the defence has not indicated whether they will call any witnesses or not.

Witnesses called by the Crown have included Paula Ma...’u of the Prime Minister...’s office, ...‘Aisake Eke the Secretary of Treasury, Sione Tekiteki the legal advisor for the Tonga Parliament and others ranging from police officers to army personnel.