A Suva sixth former was allegedly involved in a “buddying romantic relationship” with a man who was found dead in an apartment building, the High Court in Suva has learned.
Prosecutor Eoghn Samisoni informed Justice Daniel Goundar the accused, Rihaal Kumar, and the victim had met for the first time.
The 18-year-old allegedly murdered Sharuf Shaakir Khan in an apartment complex on Waimanu Road on July 7. The victim died due to excessive blood loss.
According to Mr Samisoni, three admissions have been made by the teenager in his caution interview, a tenant in the apartment complex, and another.
He will also be objecting to the accused’s bail application due to the seriousness of the charge.
Kumar, on the other hand, has engaged the services of a private lawyer, namely Robert Bancod. Legal Aid had sought and was granted leave to withdraw as counsel for the accused.
The appearance is Kumar’s first since his case was transferred from the lower court on July 10 by Magistrate Charles Ratakele.
Kumar has been further remanded in custody till July 23.
