A 24-year-old man charged with unlawful possession of illicit drugs has been granted a $5000 cash bail.
Thakor Hari Punja faces three counts of unlawful possession of illicit drugs including 0.841 grams of methamphetamine on May 11. It’s also alleged that on the same occasion, he possessed 5.447 grams of cocaine and 16.6 grams of cannabis.
Magistrate Yogesh Prasad was informed by the prosecution that Mr Punja was released on bail on May 14 despite orders that be held in remand overnight because he failed to provide two suitable sureties.
The prosecution told the court an investigation is underway and that Mr Punja’s bail be revoked while a formal bail application is filed. This was rejected by the court on the basis that the accused did not walk out of his own free will but was released by someone.
Magistrate Prasad said the presumption of bail has not been displaced.
The prosecution then requested strict bail conditions, including a $5000 cash bond, that the accused surrender his travel documents and that he provide two suitable sureties.
Mr Punja is to report to the Nadi Police Station once a week.
Magistrate Prasad also denied a defence application for name suppression.
Mr Punja has been given 21 days to be ready with a plea. The case has been adjourned to June 5.
