Charges reduced for Maharaj

The number of charges against Zoe Maharaj has been reduced from four to two following a court appearance at the Suva Magistrates Court yesterday.

Maharaj appeared before Magistrate Joseph Daurewa, where the State confirmed amendments to the charges.

The court heard that one count of possession of illicit drugs remains, while another charge has been amended to a single count under the Arms and Ammunition Act. The other two charges have been withdrawn.

Defence lawyer Isimeli Keteca told the court the changes were significant and had impacted their bail application.

Mr Keteca said the defence had filed for bail based on what he described as “changing circumstances” following the reduction in charges.

He also sought time for his client to take a plea on the amended charges.

The State requested 14 days to respond to the bail application, which was granted by the court.

Outside court, Mr Keteca said when charges are withdrawn or amended, it can indicate there may not have been sufficient evidence to support the original counts.

He said this development strengthens the defence’s case for bail.

The matter has been adjourned to May 19 for mention.