FB defamatory remarks case dismissed

Another case under the NICTA Act was struck out at the Waigani Committal Court today after the police investigating officer failed to produce files within the required time.

This case involves a 26-year-old woman who allegedly posted defamatory remarks on social media, Facebook page ‘Jimi Politics Open forum’, against the sitting member.

Margret Opo of Karap village, Jimi district, Jiwaka Province, first appeared in court on November 1, 2016, where her charge was read and explained to her.

Three months on, police prosecution received no instructions from the investigating officers on the progress of the case, which prompted them to move an application to strike the matter out, which was allowed by the court.

Magistrate Mekeo Gauli explained to Opo that police can rearrest her when their investigation files are completed.

Opo was arrested on allegations that she posted defamatory remarks using her Facebook account; Didi Dirghny Killing (Scarlet Maggie) from her mobile phone on Sept 12, 2016.

The comments made were against Jimi District MP, Mai Dop. The comments were made under a newspaper article posted by another member of the forum.

Dop’s secretary was the complainant in the case after he saw the comments.

Opo (defendant) deleted her comments soon after.

(Loop file pic)

 

Author: 
Sally Pokiton