THE alleged leader of the Malaita for Democracy (M4D) accused of planning the unauthorised public assembly that later led to the three days of riot in Honiara was released on bail yesterday.
Simon Mannie, 58, was released on a cash bail of $1,000 attached with strict bail conditions.
He will appear again in court on 17 January 2022, where he is likely to enter his plea to the allegation against him.
Mannie is facing a charge of unauthorised public assembly and public procession.
Prosecution alleged he is a leader and active member of the M4D and represents Honiara based Malaitans.
He was also believed to have been involved in unlawful planning of unauthorised public assembly that led to the November 24 2021 riot in Honiara.
It was also alleged that he and others still at large planned and executed the public procession that resulted in arson and destruction of business buildings, looting of shops and burning of Kukum Traffic Centre and damage to Naha Police Station.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Newsroom, Honiara
