Trio Remanded For Beggar’s Murder

Three youths have been remanded in custody after appearing before the Labasa Magistrate’s Court in connection with the death of a beggar in Draladamu, Wainikoro, Labasa.

The accused, Onisivoro Qaqa, 20, Rokotui Babasiga, 22, and Samisoni Rokoua, 25 are each charged with one count of murder in the death of 69-year-old Bhan Pratap Singh.

Singh, who had lived for many years at a bus shelter along Wainikoro Road, was well-known to commuters who passed by.

Last Thursday, police at the Wainikoro Community Post received a report of an elderly person was found dead just two metres from his shelter.

The victim was known for begging for money and often carried a box filled with coins.

The case was transferred to the High Court in Labasa by Magistrate Amelia Korodrau.

It is alleged that the trio attempted to steal loose coins from victim in order to buy a few bottles of beer.

When the victim refused to give the money, he was allegedly assaulted, which led to his unfortunate death.

The case was adjourned to February 11.

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