Sixteen people including three chiefs of the Ra Province were released on strict bail conditions by the Lautoka Magistrates Court yesterday.

The group appeared before Resident Magistrate Kashyapa Wickramasekara in a special court sitting.

The individuals were charged with two counts of sedition under section 65 (2) (a) and inciting communal antagonism under 67 (1) (a) of the Crimes Decree 2009.

The people charged include Tui Nalawa Ratu Epeli Niudamu, Sailasa Wairoaroa Malani, Isikeli Waisega Kabakoro, Laisiasa Mocevakaca, Emosi Toga, Waisake Racaca, Samuela Ligabalavu, Mikaele Gonerara, Josefa Natau, Ulaiyasi Rabua Tuivomo, Apolosi Qalilawa, Waisea Duailima, Ilisapeci Natau, Sulueti Lotu Waqalala, Sereima Adidave Rokodi, and Nanise Kasami Nagusuca. The 17th accused, Seini Raiko, was not present in court because she was away overseas.

The court heard that the group were involved in certain activities against the State in the Ra Province last year.

Their lawyer Aman Ravindra Singh applied for bail for his clients.

Magistrate Wickramasekara released the individuals on strict bail conditions.

The conditions includes not to leave Viti Levu unless the court approves, not to interfere with witnesses, not to re-offend, to provide two sureties and a $2000 bail bond.

The group will be called on July 27 for plea.

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