1 Mar 2008

Fiji drops charges against soldier allegedly involved in assassination plot

10:06 am on 1 March 2008

Charges have been withdrawn against a second suspect in the alleged plot to assassinate Fiji's interim Prime Minister and three others last year.

Fijilive reports that state lawyer Asishna Prasad yesterday withdrew charges against Isireli Cakau, a former member of the elite army unit, due to insufficient evidence.

Cakau was charged with inciting mutiny and conspiracy to murder along with 10 others last November.

The nine remaining accused include former Senator Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, former army troop commander Jone Baledrokadroka, businessman Sivaniolo Naulago, former head of the Fiji Intelligence Unit Metuisela Mua, and five former soldiers.

The state lawyer also asked the High Court to include New Zealand businessman Ballu Khan in the group when they next appear in court on March 4th

The state also asked the court to review bail for the accused because of their threat to national security.

Defence lawyers opposed the application, saying they had not breached their bail conditions.