Raiwaqa Top Shop robbery accused plead not guilty, seek bail

Two men charged over an alleged robbery at the Raiwaqa Top Shop last year have pleaded not guilty and are seeking bail.

Lagani Rabukawaqa, 23, and Saimoni Macedru, 27, appeared before Resident Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne today charged with one count of aggravated robbery.

The court heard that the matter was stood down to the afternoon for the taking of pleas and to address bail applications.

During the morning proceedings, Rabukawaqa’s father addressed the court, seeking leniency and bail for his son so he could enrol at the Pacific Polytech Institute.

He told the court that Rabukawaqa had shown interest in continuing his education but had been informed that his enrolment could not be processed unless he was physically present to answer questions required as part of the application process.

After the pleas were entered, the court heard that Rabukawaqa had no previous convictions, while Macedru’s criminal history was yet to be determined.

The State initially objected to bail on the grounds that the offence was indictable and a matter of public interest.

State Prosecution sought seven days to file its response to the bail applications. Macedru was given until yesterday afternoon to file his application.

Both accused were advised to have their sureties ready when the matter is called again on Wednesday.

They have been remanded in custody until then.