The Tavua Magistrates Court yesterday remanded 16 people in Police custody for allegedly being involved in activities against the State.

The group appeared before Magistrate Samuela Qica charged with one count of sedition contrary to section 67 (1) (b) of the Crimes Decree 2009 and a count of urging political violence contrary to section 65 (1) (b) of the Crimes Decree 2009.

Those charged are Mosese Tawake, Esa Namure, Jone Fatiaki, Qalitia Loma, Vatu Vakacegu, Inoke Navunilagi, Viliame Nasau, Tomasi Madigibuli, Mitieli Raituku, Vosavosa Tunakoro, Maciu Uto, Vetaia Dale, Fonomanu Maresio, Temesi Waqa, Sevanaia Qaranivalu, Matereti Vunisa and Vive Naiyo.

State prosecutor Josaia Niudamu asked the court to remand the suspects in custody because of the seriousness of the offence.

Mr Niudamu told the court that the offences also involved allegations that weapons were used.

He added that Police were still trying to round up the large number of suspects allegedly involved in the case.

The group of 16 opted for their case to be heard in the Magistrates Court and all opted for private counsels.

Magistrate Qica remanded the individuals in custody and set a court mention on August 26 at the Rakiraki Magistrates Court.

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