The motorist accused of causing the death of a five-year-old boy on the Lekutu-Nabouwalu Highway in Bua was granted bail under stringent conditions at the Labasa Magistrates Court yesterday. The accused, Ashneel Sahil Deo, allegedly fled the scene after the accident.
The charges against Deo include one count of causing a death by dangerous driving and failing to comply with post-accident requirements. The incident, which occurred on June 15, 2024, involved a minor attempting to cross the road with his father. The child, who passed away at the Labasa Hospital the following day, had allegedly darted into the road.
After being on the run for five days, Deo was apprehended by the police on June 19. Initially, he opted to remain silent during the investigative police interview.
While Police Prosecutor, Sergeant Vignesh Prasad, did not oppose bail, he did ensure that two sureties were arranged by the defendant’s lawyer. Although the defense lawyer, John Prasad, queried whether one surety would suffice, he later conceded to two. A cash bail bond of $1000 was also imposed.
Magistrate Bimsara Jagodage set the bail conditions, directing Deo to refrain from reoffending, reside in Naduna, Labasa with his father, and comply with all court dates. Interference with State witnesses and changing his residence were strictly forbidden. Deo was also informed that he could not apply for any travel documents while the case was ongoing.
The case has been postponed to August 29, 2024, for a plea hearing at the Nabouwalu Magistrate’s Court. Despite a request to transfer the case to the Labasa Magistrates Court, Deo’s lawyer was instructed to formally apply for a case transfer by Magistrate Jagodage.