Six men charged with illegal possession of marijuana in Lakeba in June have taken their pleas during a recent court appearance. Jone Vakarisi, Elia Marau, Sekove Tikoiserea, Paula Draunidalo, and Jokini Deni faced the Suva Magistrates Court regarding the possession of 139.6 grams of marijuana.
During the proceedings, Elia Marau declared a not guilty plea, while the other four accused admitted to the charges against them. Marau asserted to the court that his plea was voluntary and not coerced. The state prosecution requested additional time to file a summary of facts in the case.
Notably, one of the defendants, Nikotimo Vasuturaga, did not appear in court, resulting in a bench warrant being issued for his arrest. The case has been postponed and will reconvene on January 20 of the following year for further mention.
The legal process will continue to unfold as the court seeks to address the charges and ensure a fair resolution for all parties involved.
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