Court receives files in Kokoda attack case

The Central Committal Court has just received the completed police investigation files in the case against the Kokoda youth accused over the attack on the tourist couple early this year.

 Magistrate Ben Kome said the court only received a copy of the investigation files or the hand-up brief this month despite the accused being served his files on June 23.

The hand-up brief was put into the court files this month after an order was made on Aug 16.

Toksy Jacob first appeared in court on Feb 16 and eight months on, his case is still before the Committal Court process.

The case was adjourned for another two weeks to give more time for his lawyer to file his submissions.

The court accepted his lawyer’s explanation that the file is thick and he needs more time to respond to the exhibits or other documents in the file.

He is expected back in court on Nov 8.

Jacob’s co-accused, a juvenile, is sitting his exams this week in Port Moresby. His case is also at the same stage where the court is awaiting submissions from the lawyer.

The Efogi youths were arrested and charged for armed robbery, unlawful wounding and sexual penetration.

It is alleged they two stole K6,000 cash and 500 pounds off British citizen, Mattew Iovane, while armed with a bush knife and spear.

It is also alleged the two youths, with others, raped American Michelle Clemens and wounded both tourists.

(Pictured is the Waigani District Court registry. Loop picture by Kennedy Bani.)

Author: 
Sally Pokiton