A 53-year-old farmer, who is alleged to have killed his wife, will appear in the High Court in Suva later this month.

Fatai Peni, charged with murder, appeared yesterday before Magistrate Charles Ratakele in the Magistrates Court in Nasinu.

It is alleged that Peni, on December 29, 2019, at Nasinu, murdered Apete Bale. It is alleged that the incident occurred after an argument between the couple.

The charge was read to Peni, to which he understood. He also opted for legal representation from the Legal Aid Commission.

Police prosecutor Setareki Mocevakaca served full phase of disclosures to Peni.

He also made an application for the matter to be transferred to the High Court because the alleged offence was an indictable one and is of public interest. He also requested that Peni’s bail be determined by the High Court.

Magistrate Ratakele told Peni that the offence was indictable and only the High Court could deal with his case. He transferred the matter to the High Court and it will be called on January 24.

Peni has been remanded in custody.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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