The murder trial of two former Police officers charged with the murder of Josua Lalauvaki has been adjourned to October 29, for closing submissions.

Yesterday, defence lawyer Akuila Naco, who is appearing for former Police officer Selema Tikoenaburevere, was supposed to call in his last witness, but withdrew it.

Lawyer Barbara Malimali, who is representing the other accused, former Police officer Kelepi Kolinisau, then made an application for the defence to write their closing statements this weekend. The State did not object.

Judge Justice Vincent Perera then directed all parties to provide him with copies of their closing statements for guidance to his summing up.

Kolinisau and Tikoenaburevere are jointly charged with one count of murder. It is alleged they assaulted Mr Lalauvaki after an altercation outside a Suva nightclub on September 2, 2018. Mr Lalauvaki died a few weeks later at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital as a result of the injuries he suffered from the alleged assault.

Lawyer Meli Vosawale, from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), appeared for the State.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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