30 Aug 2016

Samoa police commissioner in court

2:41 pm on 30 August 2016

Samoa's suspended Police Commissioner has appeared in court but has not entered a plea.

Fuiavailili Egon Keil is facing one charge each of perjury, unlawful detention, providing false statements, and disorderly conduct.

Police Commissioner, Fuiavailili Egon Keil, in the middle heading to court with his lawyer (right) a family supporter and civilian police officers behind.

Police Commissioner, Fuiavailili Egon Keil, in the middle heading to court with his lawyer (right) a family supporter and civilian police officers behind. Photo: Tipi Autagavaia

The charges were laid following an inquiry over a complaint about an unlawful arrest during a police drug raid at the Fugalei market last year.

Fuiavailili Egon Keil's lawyer said the National Prosecution Office which brought charges against him, has not served the charges and trial documents to the defense.

Komisi Koria told the court the defense needs to look into the charges and trial documents to consider if the defendant would enter a guilty or not guilty plea.

The case will be called for on September 12.

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