CHIEF Justice Salesi Temo has vowed to pursue those responsible for the disappearance of seven cocaine bars from the High Court exhibit room, saying anyone found guilty should be jailed and removed from the judiciary.
Justice Temo said he was deeply concerned about the incident and would move to strengthen the system after the alleged theft.
“I’m concerned, and I will move towards resolving it,” he said.
He said there should be no place in the judiciary for anyone responsible for stealing court exhibits.
“And whoever is gonna be found to be responsible, I’d like to see that person in jail.
“There’s no room for that kind of person in our judiciary.”
Justice Temo said protecting the integrity of the courthouse was his responsibility.
“It’s my duty to protect the sanctity of the courthouse, that includes all the people who work on the courthouse.
“I hope the police catch him and let justice take its course.”
On calls for an audit of all exhibits held by the courts, Justice Temo said the responsibility shifted to the judiciary once exhibits entered the courthouse.
He cautioned against unnecessary intervention by outside bodies, saying the judiciary had its own powers to protect the integrity of the court.
He also acknowledged that stealing exhibits were not a new problem and experienced 30 years ago from when he joined the judiciary.
