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The fifth suspect in the indecent assault case involving an escapee appeared in court today.
The court heard today that Pita Matairavula was at the military barracks and police were turned away when they showed up to arrest him.
These details were revealed by Assistant Director of Public Prosecution Michael Delaney as Matairavula made his first appearance today facing charges of unlawfully and indecently assaulting Iowane Benedito.
DPP while objecting to bail stated that Matairavula had been evading arrest since the 21st of October, when a relative told police that he had gone to the shop when they showed up at his residence to arrest him.
Failing to arrest him at his residence and at the military barracks, police then showed up at the Lautoka High Court where the accused was facing a manslaughter charge for Vilikesa Soko.
They were however told he would be brought to Suva to face his charges for Benedito, however this did not occur.
DPP informed the court that on all occasions Matairavula was accompanied by military officers.
Also taking the stand today was the Investigating officer in charge of the case, who in his testimony stated that when military officers are investigated the procedure would be informing the Commissioner of Police and then the Military Commander.
Defence Counsel Maboob Razak in his response said that he would not comment on the interference by the military in this case however prosecution could still go ahead and make an arrest.
He also stated that Matairavula is married with 2 children, he voluntarily gave himself up at the Valelevu Police Station, and is also a first offender.
Magistrate Charles Ratakele has adjourned the case to next Friday for a bail ruling.
The accused remains in remand.