The three assessors, in the case of two former Police officers charged with murder, have returned with an unanimous opinion of not guilty.

However, for the first accused Kelepi Kolinisau, the assessors gave an opinion of guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter.

For the second accused Selema Tikoenaburevere, the assessors gave an opinion of guilty to the lesser charge of assault causing actual bodily harm.

Kolinisau and Tikoenaburevere, who were jointly charged with one count of murder, appeared before High Court Judge Justice Vincent Perera yesterday.

The court has adjourned the matter to 2:30pm today for judgment.

It is alleged the two assaulted Josua 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.

Defence counsels Barbara Malimali and Akuila Naco are expected to file mitigation today.

Both accused have been remanded in custody.

Edited by Percy Kean

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