Four of the men accused of robbing two Chinese businessmen at sea between Guadalcanal and Gela early this year have been released on bail.
Henry Zimbo, 44, was released last week while Cecil Domo, 24, David Rugitona, 30 and John Kara were released on Monday.
They were released on a cash bail of $500 attached with strict bail conditions.
Chief Magistrate Emma Garo after granting their bail applications adjourned the matter to April 29.
This is for them to enter their pleas.
All the accused are jointly charged with one count of robbery in relation to an allegation on 20 January 2019.
Prosecution alleged John Kara, the fourth accused was transporting two Chinese national to Gela to buy Beche-de-mer on his private Outboard Motor Engine when the alleged incident occurred.
It was alleged Kara invited the two Chinese national over to purchase Beche-de-mers at Gela.
Approaching the middle sea between Gela and Guadalcanal, it was alleged they sighted a boat carrying three of the accused, floating due to mechanical problem.
It was further alleged that as Kara and the two victims approached the boat carrying the other accused, the men asked Kara for a tool.
As Kara was looking for his tool, one of the accused boarded Kara’s boat and after talking with him in Gela dialect, he pushed Kara into the sea.
The other two accused also wrestled with the alleged victims and threw them overboard before the accused started their engine and fled towards Gela.
The accused allegedly stole about $300,000 from the alleged victims.
Private Lawyer Samuel Balea represents Kara while the Public Solicitor’s Office is representing the rest of the accused.
Appearing for the Crown is Public Prosecutor Patrick Rajah Abe.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
