1 Oct 2002

18 police officers in Vanuatu have had mutiny charges dropped

6:45 pm on 1 October 2002

18 police officers in Vanuatu who were facing trial for mutiny, have had all charges against them dropped.

8 others, including the former acting police commissioner, Holi Simon, and the former head of the Vanuatu mobile force, Api Jack Marikembo, will still face charges of mutiny and inciting mutiny.

However, other charges against them, including unlawful assembly, are expected to be dropped.

The eight will stand trial for the unlawful arrests of 15 public officials, including the attorney general, over the appointment of a police commissioner.

The appointment was subsequently quashed in a ruling by the Supreme Court.

Our correspondent says there was a large public turn out at the court hearing today which included police officers, members of the Vanuatu right wing movement and traditional chiefs.

The hearing has been adjourned until tomorrow when pleas are expected to be entered and a trial date set.

It's reported that a deal was reached between the prosecution, represented by Australian lawyer, John Baxterwright, and defence lawyers over the dropping of the charges against the 18 police.

Sworn statements from the group will be presented at the trial.