The 39-year-old security officer charged in relation to the death of 14-year-old Mere Ailevu at Loloma Beach in Pacific Harbour last month yesterday waived his right to counsel.

Josua Colanaudolu appeared before Magistrate Senileba Levaci at the Navua Magistrates Court yesterday.

Colanaudolu is charged with two counts of rape, one count of murder and one count of abduction. He is also facing two other unrelated rape charges from 1998 and 2002.

The charges were all read out to the accused in court yesterday to which he indicated he understood and opted for no legal representation.

Police Prosecutor, Sakeo Raikaci made an application for the matter to be transferred to the High Court citing that the offence was very serious.

Mr Raikaci also objected to bail on the grounds that the accused has been charged with two counts of rape and all the charges laid against him were very serious.

He also objected to bail on the grounds that there was tension in the community and for the interest of the members of the public they had to take him away for the accused’s own safety.

Mr Raikaci also objected to bail saying it was for the best interest of justice; that the accused do not interfere with prosecution witnesses.

The case has been adjourned to April 4 where Colanaudolu will take his plea in the High Court.

He has been further remanded in custody.

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

Feedback:  aqela.susu@fijisun.com.fj