Alleged officer ill-treated in remand

A Fiji police officer charged with theft and interfering with evidence is been ill treated and threatened by other inmates at the Korovou Prison, the Magistrates Court in Suva heard today.

Constable Kaipati Bakoa appeared before Magistrate Yohan Liyange today where his ordeal was discussed.

The court was told that Bakoa's life was in jeopardy from the first day of remand at the prison.

Bakoa is alleged to have stolen marijuana that was stored as police exhibits at the Nabua Police Station.

Suva based lawyer Kalisito Maisamosa who is representing Bakoa  told the court that food served to his client had big amount of salt and at times there were flies in his meals.

He requested the court to consider their bail application as Bakoa was receiving harsh treatment.

While crossed examined by Liyange, Bakoa said other inmates used to throw bread and rice at him during meal time.

Bakoa said he gets this treatment ever since the first day of his admittance.

“Every time I sleep, I lock the door,” he testified.

As the cells are close to each other, he fears sometimes his enemies might climb over and do something to him.

The court also heard he shares the washing and iron room with other inmates  and this adds more risks to his life.

“My client’s life is in danger,” said Maisamosa.

DPP’s lawyer Lisiate Fotofili told the court they are not objecting his bail application provided Bakoa abides by the bail condition where he should attend all his court hearings.

Fotofili said they are not objecting to his application because the alleged is a police officer but added that he should not interfere with any police evidence.

Fotofili was told to file an affidavit for what he said in court about not objecting to bail application.

However, magistrate Liyange ordered to further remand Bakoa with extensive security.

The case has been adjourned to June 25 where the DPP will submit their affidavit.

By Ropate Valemei