Fourteen men who were allegedly involved in attacks against Police officers in Levuka have been denied bail by the Magistrates Court in Nausori.

They are Samisoni Ralulu, Sekove Naititoko, Penioni Drikibau, Joeli Rabuka, Livai Siga, Josevata Yaqona, Joseva Dovutuisau, Apososa Tacaqe, Mate Yasa, Pita Gauna, Tome Sikau, Peniasi Caginiwaqaiabu, Josaia Yalovigau and Abel Williams.

They appeared before Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne.

They are aged between 20 and 45 and have been charged with various offences such as common nuisance, disobedience of lawful order, serious assault, criminal intimidation, and obstructing a Police officer.

All 14 men have sought representation from the Legal Aid Commission.

A team of officers from the Police Response Unit was deployed to Levuka after officers based at the Levuka Police Station were allegedly attacked by a group of men who were drinking in town on November 9.

Three officers had initially attended to a report where 20 men from Nauouo Village, Vatukalo Village, Toki Village and Waitovu Village were drinking at Beach Street in Levuka Town after 7pm.

The officers had asked the men to clear the area but were allegedly threatened and chased.

The officers called for backup and more Police officers were deployed which also included officers from the National Fire Authority and Fiji Corrections Services.

The second attempt made to clear the area resulted in three of the officers allegedly sustaining injuries and three suspects were arrested.

In court yesterday, the Police prosecution strongly objected to the bail for all 14 men on the grounds that the matter was of public interest and was a case of alleged Police assault.

Magistrate Somaratne remanded the 14 men on the grounds of public interest and ordered them to file a formal bail application.

The matter has been adjourned for mention on November 15.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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