Church leader charged with indecent assault remanded in custody

The pastor of a church group known as Jezreel Lion of Judah, Jone Rabuno Cokanauto who has been charged with allegedly indecently assaulting a person, has been remanded in police custody until this Friday.

Cokanauto’s lawyer Simione Valenitabua filed an oral bail application before Nasinu Magistrate Charles Ratakele this afternoon.

He has to file a written application with specific reasons by tomorrow.

Valenitabua told the court that Cokanauto will not interfere with the state witnesses, is ready to face a curfew between 7pm to 7am and will surrender his passport.

The state lawyer has objected to bail, stating that the police investigation is continuing into other allegations against the pastor.

The prosecution also said that there is a likelihood the accused may interfere with other state witnesses.

Valenitabua also complained about some reports in the media about his client’s charges and that they are disgusted about it.

Magistrate Ratakele told the lawyer not to worry about what is reported in the media but to focus on the evidence coming before the court.

Cokanauto allegedly indecently assaulted the victim between 1st January 2006 to 31st July 2006.

Valenitabua said he will attach a copy of Cokanauto’s medical card with the bail application as he is suffering from a medical condition.

The case has been adjourned to 2.30pm Friday.

Police earlier said that he is likely to face further charges as the church pastor is allegedly involved in some other cases.

It is alleged that the pastor allegedly impregnated some underage girls who were members of his congregation.

Chief of Investigations and Intelligence ACP Henry Brown said investigations continue in relation to some other cases.

ACP Brown is calling on members of public who have information regarding any cases involving the church pastor, to contact police on 3315599.

It is alleged that the pastor has more than 10 children out of wedlock.

It is also claimed that a 13-year-old was also allegedly impregnated by the pastor.