Ashneel Sahil Deo, the driver allegedly responsible for the tragic accident that resulted in the death of a five-year-old boy on the Lekutu-Nabouwalu Highway in Bua, was granted bail under stringent conditions in Labasa Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Deo is accused of failing to halt at the accident scene and is facing charges for dangerous driving leading to death and non-compliance with requirements after an accident.
According to reports, the sad incident occurred on June 15, 2024, when the young boy, who was trying to cross the road with his father, unexpectedly darted across the path of Deo’s vehicle. The boy succumbed to his injuries the next day at Labasa Hospital. Deo managed to evade the police for five days following the accident, but he was eventually apprehended on June 19.
During the initial stage of the investigation, the accused chose to remain silent throughout the police caution interview. However, Police Prosecutor Sergeant Vignesh Prasad did not oppose bail, suggesting that the court should stipulate two sureties provided by the defense.
In response, defense attorney John Prasad initially proposed for only one surety but later conceded to the requirement of two. Additionally, a cash bail bond of $1000 was set.
Magistrate Bimsara Jagodage granted bail to the accused under the following conditions: not to commit further offenses, to remain at Naduna, Labasa at his father’s address, and not to relocate. Deo was also ordered to regularly appear in court until his case is resolved, and he was specifically cautioned against meddling with State witnesses.
He is also forbidden from applying for travel documents while the case remains active. The case was postponed to August 29, 2024, for a plea at the Nabouwalu Magistrate’s Court. Mr. Prasad, Deo’s lawyer, requested the judge for permission to move the case to Labasa Magistrates Court, to which Magistrate Jagodage advised the defense to submit an application for case transfer.