Five policemen and one civilian pleaded not guilty to charge they killed the New Zealand Policeman Kali Fungavaka when they appeared at supreme court in Nuku’alofa yesterday.
Police Inspector Kelepi Hala’ufia and Police Constables Tevita Vakalahi, Manu Tu’ivai, Salesi Maile, Fatai Faletau and civilian Semisi Kalisitiane Manu pleaded not guilty to charges of manslaughter and grevious bodily harm.
All five policemen accused have chosen to be tried by a supreme court judge while the civilian Semisi Kalisitiane Manu chose to have his trial before a jury.
Justice Cato granted adjournment for the case till August 23 giving the counsels an opportunity to submit recommendation as to how the case would be heard as the accused variously chosen to be tried by a judge and a jury. He will then make decision before the hearing on September 5.
‘Aminiasi Kefu and Sione Sisifa acted on behalf of the Crown.
Kali Fungavaka died in hospital after he was arrested by police in August 2012.
