The High Court in Lautoka has heard that a man charged with murder was allegedly being sexually assaulted by the deceased.

This is in the case of Avneil Dilesh Mani who is charged for the murder of Pushp Chandra.

State prosecutor Semi Babitu told the court that Mani was allegedly sexually assaulted by Chandra.

The state lawyer also stated in the the accused’s last appearance that they would be relying on the caution interview during the trial that will take place from August 3 till August 14.

Mani appeared in person before Judge Justice Chamath Morais who presided over the matter.

The accused is charged with the death of a 57-year-old Pushp Chandra at Simla, Lautoka between February 8 and February 9 last year.

Mr Babitu told the court that the two-week trial dates had been set for August 3 to 14 and that the state had served the disclosures to Mani to which Mani confirmed that he received them.

The court heard that the accused had a pending bail matter.

Mr Babitu requested for time to file an affidavit in response to the bail application of the accused.

Justice Morais adjourned the case to March 23 for mention and further remanded the accused.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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