Andy Bawa

The matter was adjourned to Wednesday this week after the State brought to the attention of the court that they received information that one of their witnesses also filed an affidavit or statement for the defence’s case.

This particular state witnesses’ “evidence provides bulk of state's case" and they (state) will now need time to go back and “rework” where they can proceed in light of the new development.

State sought an adjournment because they were "unaware of the contents of the statement”. Bawa’s lawyers refuted saying they are not receive such.

Bawa will stand trial on Feb 6, 2017 where he will answer to allegations of abusing the authority of his office.

He appeared before Deputy Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika today where the date was set.

On Oct 17, the Waigani District Court committed Bawa for trial in the National Court after sufficient evidence was found against him.

From Kandep in Enga Province, he is facing allegations of stealing and abusing the authority of his office last year while he was the NCD Metropolitan Superintendent.

Following the committal of his case for trial in the National Court on Oct 17, Bawa’s bail conditions will be reviewed in court next Monday by his lawyer and State Prosecutors before Deputy Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika.

Bawa and his lawyer appeared before Sir Gibbs this afternoon and were told to consult and consent with the office of the Public Prosecutor on the bail conditions for review next Monday. He remains on District Court bail until then.

NCD’s Metropolitan Superintendent Andy  Bawa posted on Facebook a picture of the officer holding bottles of coke and whisky in front of the police vehicle.

According to Bawa a member of the public alerted the police.

The two were stopped on the freeway and taken to Boroko police station where they were arrested and charged.

Bawa is encouraging members of the Port Moresby community to report any abuse or misuse of government property.