19-year-old murder accused remanded in custody

19-year-old Sanaila Stone Taroka who allegedly assaulted a 25-year-old last week resulting in his death has been remanded in custody.

Taroka is in remand until his case is called in Suva High Court on August 16th for bail and plea.

He is charged with one count of murder.

Taroka allegedly punched Navitalai Loatuicama along Carnavon Street in Suva, resulting in his death.

Magistrate Seini Puamau had questioned the prosecution why the charge was murder and not manslaughter as is usually the case and this is why she has transferred the case to the High Court.

Police had earlier stated that the 19-year-old man allegedly assaulted the 25-year-old man while returning from a nightclub.

The man fell over the railings, hit the cement surface, and was rushed to the CWM Hospital by his relatives.

He passed away at the CWM Hospital on the same afternoon.