Results for From the Courts

A preliminary inquiry in an illegal arms and ammunition case against Lord Tu'ilakepa, a former Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga, is now anticipated for sometime early next year, depending on the outcome of his appeal lodged on Friday last week.

The case against the Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Tonga Lord Tu'iha'ateiho, who is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm without a license was adjourned to February, 2013.

Four local companies who were suing their insurance company for cover over damage to their properties in the riots of 16 November 2006, ended their case today on the basis that no party paid costs. The plaintiffs were disappointed to pull out as the evidence in court about the riots favoured the defence position that the riots resulted from "a popular rising, people connected with an organisation the objects of which included influencing the government by violent means and terrorism."

'Isileli Pulu, who followed a crowd of rioters and witnessed damage to businesses during the 16 November 2006 Nuku'alofa riots, was vigorously questioned on his movements on that day, when he gave evidence in an insurance case heard at the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court yesterday. During the hard questioning the judge warned 'Isileli that he may not answer any questions if he felt it might incriminate himself.

Eight plaintiffs of local businesses whose properties were damaged and gutted by fire during the riots of November 16, 2006 are suing their insurance company the National Pacific Insurance (Tonga) Ltd, for coverage.

Lord Lasike was acquitted this morning on a charge of illegal possession of ammunitions without a license, after his appeal against his conviction was allowed by Tonga's Court of Appeal.

A Preliminary Inquiry of the current Deputy Speaker of the Tonga Legislative Assembly Lord Tu'iha'ateiho on one charge of unlawful possession of a firearm without a license is adjourned to October 18, for a new date to be fixed.

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.

Six male accused, including five Tongan police officers and one detainee, have each been charged with manslaughter at the Nuku'alofa Magistrate's Court this afternoon, and were expected to be released on bail later today, September 27. The three police officers who were arrested today included the supervising officer identified as Inspector Kelepi Hala'ufia, with the two police constables named as Manu Tu'ivai and Tevita Vakalahi.