Sureties summoned as accused remains on run

A man accused of trying to kill a police officer at a Laqere roadblock remains on the run, with the State asking the High Court in Suva to summon his two sureties over his failure to appear in court.

Saimoni Rokotunidau appeared before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere today, where the State raised concerns over his continued absence.

State prosecutor Hezekiah Nofaga told the court that police had been unable to locate Rokotunidau despite a bench warrant for his arrest.

Mr Nofaga also alleged that Rokotunidau had sold some of his properties.

The State asked the court to require Rokotunidau’s two sureties to explain why he had failed to appear and whether they knew his whereabouts.

Justice Tuiqereqere ordered the two sureties to appear in court on August 24.

Rokotunidau is facing five charges — one count each of attempted murder, unlawful possession of illicit drugs, going equipped, serious assault, and refusing to have his fingerprints and photographs taken.

The charges relate to an alleged incident at a police roadblock in Laqere in May this year.

Police allege Rokotunidau was driving a vehicle that crashed through the roadblock, injuring several police officers who were taken to hospital.

The case remains before the High Court, while police continue efforts to locate Rokotunidau. The matter will be called again on August 24.