A 39-year-old businessman and multi-media artist charged in relation to the death of Sunia Baleisamabula has been further remanded in custody.

He will await a reply from Interpol regarding his permanent residency status in Australia.

Rusiate Lali of Mokani village is charged with one count of murder.

He appeared before Magistrate Vandhana Lal at the Nausori Magistrates Court yesterday.

Defence lawyer, Simione Valenitabua yesterday told the court that on the previous occasion the court had given Prosecution direction to inquire into his client’s residency.

Police prosecution said they were liaising with the Interpol and awaiting their reply on the accused’s residency status.

Mr Valenitabua told the court that his client extensively travelled to satisfy his residency in Australia which was to live there for a month or so.

He also informed the court that his client had a clean record and that he was ready to abide by any strict condition if he was granted bail.

Mr Valenitabua also clarified to the court that his client was ready to pay cash if the Court permits so.

The case has been adjourned to next Monday for bail ruling.

Edited by Filipe Naigulevu

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