Magistrate Orders Dunn To Self-Quarantine

Bani Dunn, who allegedly spread false news about positive cases of COVID-19 was told to self-quarantine, as part of his bail conditions.

Magistrate Seini Puamau, who presided over the case, also told the lawyers that the 41-year-old self-employed man should exercise a degree of restraint because of his influence in society.

Dunn, who was not present in court, is charged with one count of Malicious Act for allegedly posting on Facebook about positive coronavirus cases.

The Police Prosecution had initially objected to his bail and he was remanded in custody, however, he was not produced in Court on Tuesday.

Magistrate Puamau released him on bail after she found that he was held longer then the required 48hours for questioning and Police was entitled to grant him bail but they did not.

She said Police also failed to produce Dunn in Court within 24hours after he was charged.

The Court heard that he is not a flight risk and is not a threat to the community.

He was bailed on a $1000 bond with two sureties who were bonded for the same amount and he was ordered not to re-offend, not to interfere with Prosecution witnesses and not to change his residential address.

His case has been adjourned to July 16th for plea.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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