Court refuses bail for woman facing drug and explosives charges

The Lami woman charged with possession of illicit drugs and an explosive was denied bail today.

Zoey Maharaj appeared with her lawyer, Isimeli Keteca, before Resident Magistrate Joseph Daurewa at the Suva Magistrate Court for her bail ruling.

She faces one count each of possession of illicit drugs, possession of property believed to be proceeds of crime, going equipped for theft or a property offence, and unlawful possession of explosives.

Moore was allegedly found with a grenade and 0.111 grams of methamphetamine on February 13 in Delainavesi, Lami.

Police allege that for the proceeds of crime charge, she was found with $345 in cash, two CCTV cameras, a speaker and an electronic scale.

She was also allegedly found with a pinch bar on the same day in relation to a charge of possessing break-in implements.

In his ruling, Magistrate Daurewa said the court was satisfied, on a balance of probabilities, that the public interest and the protection of the community would be at real risk if Maharaj were granted bail.

Magistrate Daurewa noted that Maharaj’s request for a medical check-up for a condition was not supported by any medical documents.

He also noted that she had breached her bail conditions for a pending case before the Sigatoka Magistrate Court.

The case has been adjourned to April 7.