THE three men who were accused of masterminding the November 2021 riot in Honiara will face trial next month.
The trial will start on 9 October.
Simon Mannie, John Kwaita and Knoxley Atu are facing trial for two counts of managing unlawful society, one count of sedition, two counts of unlawful assembly and seven counts of arson.
The prosecution alleged they managed an unlawful society namely, Malaita 4 Democracy (M4D) between 1 August 2021 and 26 November 2021.
It was further alleged the trio also planned and executed protests that resulted in the arson of the National Parliament leaf hut, another leaf hut at the Prime Minister’s residence at Lungga, Bank South Pacific branch at Ranadi and the Honiara High School Science lab and school hall.
The three-day violence from 24 November to 26 November 2021 in Honiara also saw China Town in ruins, plus destruction of business houses and looting of shops in other parts of Honiara.
They pleaded not guilty to the charges and are now awaiting trial.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
