The High Court in Suva has denied bail to a 37-year-old man facing robbery and sexual-related charges.
Iliesa Cuanilawa, who is charged with one count each of aggravated robbery, assault with intent to commit rape and rape appeared before judge Justice Daniel Goundar today.
Armed with a knife, the accused is alleged to have robbed the complainant of jewelry and assorted items worth $4228 last February in Vuci Road, Nausori.
While delivering his bail ruling, Justice Goundar said the charges were serious and the case was potentially strong.
He said the accused did not have stable employment or strong community ties and had previous convictions since 2007.
Justice Goundar said the accused had initially chosen to represent himself in the matter, however, when the trial date came closer, he had changed his mind and decided to engage a private lawyer.
The trial was vacated to allow the accused to secure legal representation.
Justice Goundar said after taking all those into account, the court was satisfied that the accused was unlikely to appear for his trial and that due to his criminal record, the accused would make the protection of the community more difficult.
Meanwhile, Mr Cuanilawa told the court that he needed more time to engage a private lawyer.
He also told the court that he had been assaulted by the prison officers at the remand centre and he had lodged a complaint at the Totogo Police Station regarding this.
The case has been adjourned to July 3, 2020.
