Bail denied for Khan over restraining order charge

Imran Khan has been denied bail by the Nadi Magistrates Court after the court found the defence submissions insufficient.

Khan appeared before Magistrate Safaira Ratu today, charged with one count of contravention of a restraining order under Section 42(1)(a) of the Proceeds of Crime Act 1997.

It is alleged he breached a High Court order by disposing of a vehicle covered under the restraining order, which also includes a $400,000 property, cash held at a local bank, and four vehicles.

Police earlier conducted raids at four properties in Makoi, Valelevu and Davuilevu in search of one of the vehicles that remained unaccounted for.

The court heard that the other vehicles listed under the High Court order remain in Police custody and were not removed prior to the raid, contrary to claims circulated on social media.

Khan was represented by Jerry Dinati, while the State was represented by Joeli Naivalu.

The State sought to have the matter transferred to the High Court and opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the alleged breach and risk of flight.

The defence applied for bail, arguing the accused had complied with previous court dates, was willing to meet bail conditions, and remained entitled to the presumption of innocence.

Magistrate Ratu directed both parties to make formal submissions on bail and jurisdiction before standing the matter down briefly for a ruling.

In delivering the decision, Magistrate Ratu said the State had raised concerns about the seriousness of the charge and the alleged breach of court orders.

The court also considered police intelligence indicating a risk of flight and found there was a likelihood the accused may not appear in court.

Bail was refused on public interest grounds.

The matter has been transferred to the Suva High Court and will be called on May 13.