Juvenile in Kokoda case released on bail

The Waigani National Court has issued orders for the investigating officer involved in the Kokoda attack to be questioned by his superiors.

Justice Panuel Mogish issued the order yesterday after Public Prosecution team brought the issue of investigation before the court’s attention.

Justice Mogish ordered the officer involved to see his commanding officer for not cooperating with the prosecutor in his investigation despite the case attracting international attention.

The 17-year-old juvenile who was arrested and charge of the attack on two tourists along the Kokoda track early this year was released from custody after a successful bail application at the Waigani National Court.

The defendant whose details have been withheld was allowed a bail of K1000 due to the fact that he is a primary school student and that he is a juvenile.

He was charged for armed robbery, rape or sexual penetration and wounding. The initial charge of abduction was struck out.

His lawyer from the Public Solicitors office moved the application before Justice Panuel Mogish after he spent close to three months in custody at Bomana. He would have been in grade 8 this year.

Meanwhile, it was also brought to the court’s attention that the police investigating officer is allegedly not co-operating with the Public Prosecutor’s office.

His co-accused, 19-year-old Toksy Jacob is working with his lawyers in also seeking bail before the National Court. He is expected back before the District court on April 15.

Bail applications are being moved against the two at the National Court as the District Court does not have jurisdiction to deal with cases of armed robbery.

Both Jacob and his 17-year-old co-accused are from Efogi in the Northern Province.

It is alleged the 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 or sexually penetrated American Michelle Clemens and wounded both tourists.

Picture courtesy of TV wan.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton