Updated: 6:11am – Two women allegedly involved in the escape of Deshwar Kishore Dutt from custody were granted bail during a special court sitting at the Nadi Magistrates Court.
It is alleged that Dutt’s lawyer, Adi Vereivalu Vateitei, and his wife Shiwani Vikashni Sami, aided him to escape lawful custody in Nadi between February 1 and December 15 last year.
They appeared before Magistrate Siromi Turaga and pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Divisional prosecuting officer, ACP Anil Prasad objected to bail on the grounds that it would hinder Police investigations because Dutt was a habitual offender.
He told the court that the escapee was wanted for numerous charges and that Police were working day and night to solve the case.
ACP Prasad also revealed that they have documents showing that the two accused were allegedly contacting Dutt.
Their lawyer, Roopesh Singh said Vateitei was no threat to the public and she should be granted bail.
He then told the court his client had been mistreated by Police where she was locked in a cell full of men and restricted from seeing her parents while held in custody.
ACP Prasad, in response said they had not mistreated Vateitei and that it was their duty to provide food for accused persons.
He also revealed that more people were expected to be charged with the alleged aiding of Dutt’s escape.
The two accused were released on a $1000 bail each with a surety.
The court has ordered Vateitei to report to the Nadi Police Station every Wednesday and Friday while Sami is to report to the Nausori Police Station.
They are not to make any contact with Dutt or re-offend.
The matter has been adjourned to February 12 for mention.
-Fiji Sun
Featured image: Shiwani Vikash Sami appeared at the Nadi Magistrates Court on January 1, 2018.
