A sub-editor of The Fiji Times appeared in the Sigatoka Magistrates Court yesterday charged with one count of general dishonesty – causing a loss.

Epineri Vulakovaki, of Suva, appeared before Magistrate Tomasi Bainivalu.

He was represented by a Legal Aid lawyer, Nikhil Chand, and Police prosecutor Sergeant Mohammed Farouk represented the State.

Sergeant Farouk did not object to bail but asked the court for strict bail ruling conditions because of the nature of the offence.

Magistrate Bainivalu granted Vulakovaki bail but since his two sureties were not present he will be remanded at the Sigatoka Police Station until 2.30pm today when it is expected that the sureties would be present.

Ex-staff member of teachers group in court

Meanwhile, a former staff member of the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) appeared in the Sigatoka Magistrates Court yesterday. Mereseini Bulewa, 36, is charged with seven counts of obtaining financial advantage.

A second accused did not appear in court. Magistrate Bainivalu granted bail to the accused with a $1500 bail bond, with strict conditions including not reoffending and surrendering travel documents.

She is also to report to Nakasi Police Station on Mondays and Saturdays.

The accused will re-appear at the Suva Magistrates Court on August 16 for mention.