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Issue No: 686; 19 April 2001
Terrorist George Speight and his gang will be brought to Suva today for court appearance. The band has been charged with treason and has been locked up on Nukulau Island since July last year. Courts used to sit on the Island so far. Unlike other prisoners facing court, the Speight band have all been locked together and have privileges better than other prisoners. The Chief Magistrate, Salesi Temo, had also allowed them state-funded visits from relatives, vodafone access, and other privileges. These were turned down by the High Court later. The SVT and other political parties which co-plotted and supported the terrorists and the attempted coup have called for Speight to be freed. It is believed that some prominent chiefs have been working behind the scenes to get Speight and his group freed. It is believed that preliminary investigation into the charge would begin today. Meanwhile, observers stated that Suva was tense yesterday. Some claim that the Qarase regime is deliberately trying to create a situation of instability which will give it an excuse to postpone the elections scheduled for August. The police force has stated that naval and military personnel will be present at the courthouse today to provide security. |
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People's Coalition Government - Fiji Islands |
