Two villagers of Lakeba in Lau charged in relation to a letter sent to the Prime Minister have been remanded in custody by Suva Magistrate Makereta Mua.

Peni Mapa is charged with three counts of forgery and Malakai Sabanaivalu is facing two counts of incitement to violence and disobedience to law and giving false information.

Defence counsel Naipote Vere made an application in court if the plea could be deferred as he has to look through the disclosures.

Prosecutor Corporal Narsa Reddy asked the court not to grant bail to the two men because the offence is serious and it is a matter of national interest.  

Magistrate Mua deferred the plea and said that two sureties be present in court tomorrow for the accused persons.

Mapa and Sabanaivalu allegedly forged the signatures of village elders, chiefs and representatives in a letter to the Prime Minister saying he is not welcome on the island of Lakeba.

The case will be recalled at 11.30am tomorrow.


Story by: Tokasa Rainima