Six accused men, including five police officers, who are charged with manslaughter in relation to the death of New Zealand Police Officer Kali Fungavaka, had their case adjourned to November 2 after appearing before a Magistrate in Nuku'alofa this morning.

The Solicitor General 'Aminiasi Kefu told Matangi Tonga this afternoon, that the adjournment would allow counsel to decide whether to have a Preliminary Inquiry at the Magistrate's Court or to have the case directly committed to the Supreme Court for trial. 

The six accused, who are currently released on bail ,appeared with their counsel before Magistrate Pita Soakimi in chambers, while 'Aminiasi Kefu acted for the Crown.

Their appearance today was to set a timetable for the case to be moved forward in court, he said.

Accused Inspector Kelepi Hala'ufia, who was the supervising officer on the night of August 17 when Kali was fatally injured in custody, was represented by Palu Taufateau. While Siosifa Tu'utafaiva represented the remaining five accused, including four police constables Manu Tu'ivai, Tevita Vakalahi, Salesi Maile, Fatai Faletau, and detainee Semisi Kalisitiane Manu.

They are similarly charged with manslaughter, with an alternative charge of causing grevious bodily harm.