New Zealand resident Mohammed Raheesh Isoof, charged with the Nausori Highlands murder of five people, was remanded by the High Court in Lautoka yesterday.

Isoof is charged with five counts of murder and one count of attempted murder.

It’s alleged that on August 25 and 26, Isoof murdered carpenter, Nirmal Kumar, his 54-year-old wife Usha Devi, their 34-year-old daughter, Nileshni Kajal and her two daughters Sana aged, 11 and Samara, 8.

The matter was called for first mention after being transferred from the Magistrates Court in Nadi on September 16.

Isoof appeared before Judge Justice Rangajeeva Wimalasena and was represented by Iqbal Khan of Iqbal Khan and Associates while the State was represented by Semi Babitu.

Mr Babitu sought for 14 days to file information and disclosures.

Justice Wimalasena told Mr Khan that the 14-day period fell within the second week of October whereby there would be no Court sittings at the High Court, however, he would be able to adjourn the matter to October 11.

Mr Khan requested for the State to file information in order for him to file a bail application

Justice Wimalasena told Mr Khan that he could file a bail application for his client, however, in regard to the substantive matter, he could provide the date of October 11, if Mr Khan did not have any objections and in the meantime, the State could file disclosures.

Mr Babitu agreed with Justice Wimalasena’s instruction and said he would serve disclosures to Mr Khan once they were ready.

The matter has been adjourned to October 11, for disclosures.

The accused was further remanded in custody and a production order has been issued.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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