18 Nov 2004

Man held in connection with Wallisian murder in New Caledonia

7:18 am on 18 November 2004

Police in New Caledonia have taken a man into custody in connection with the murder of a man of Wallisian origin in Noumea.

The body of Lucitiko Tuaga was found in the suburb of Ducos at the weekend, with a banknote in one hand.

The newspaper, Les Nouvelles Caledoniennes, says police aren't describing the man as a suspect.

Police say the man is an important witness, who knows the victim well and can tell detectives more about his habits.

An autopsy has confirmed Mr Tuaga was killed after a series of blows with a sharp implement.