A father of nine children was remanded in custody despite pleading to the Suva Magistrate’s Court for bail with strict conditions.

Bernard Hicks, who is charged with one count of murder of his de facto partner, appeared before Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne.

Magistrate Somaratne remanded Hicks, 50, who allegedly stabbed his de facto partner eight times which led to her death.

Defence lawyer Sokoveti Volau gave her arguments for bail saying the accused was willing to be on strict bail conditions, had agreed to be on curfew, is a father of nine children and was the only one supporting them.

Police Prosecutor Constable Josua Shaw objected to bail saying that it was an indictable offence and the matter was of public interest where the safety of the accused should be considered due to the relationship between the deceased and accused.

Constable Shaw said the accused had left his family five years ago and had a de facto relationship with the deceased and had not been supporting the family since.

He said it was a domestic violence case at its worst.

Magistrate Somaratne denied the request for bail considering the arguments presented by the prosecutor and has transferred the case to the High Court on May 20 for mention.

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

Feedback: jessica.gounder@fijisun.com.fj