Most of the accused in connection with the November 16th riots in Tonga have been released on bail following their preliminary inquiry today before Magistrate Salesi Mafi in Nuku'alofa.
They are facing charges including theft, willful damage, arson and attempted arson.
44 people appeared in court today, and bail conditions were set at 490 US dollars each.
Meanwhile, according to the defense services, the public and the media were barred from court, based on a request from police on security and safety reasons.
Convoys of heavily guarded vehicles with some of the suspects who were still remanded in custody in various police prisons on Tongatapu also entered the same check-points.
The accused have been scheduled to appear in court in early February while others have to do so in April.
They are being charged on various offences in connection with the riots including theft, willful damage, arson and attempted arson.
