A hearing for a bail variation allowing Charlie Charters to reside in Hong Kong is scheduled for Wednesday, his lawyer informed the court. Charters, a Fijian and British national, is currently on bail facing charges related to aiding and abetting.
Bail Variation Request
Defence lawyer Seforan Fatiaki told Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne that the application for a change in bail conditions is due to Charters’ work commitments and the need to attend his uncle’s funeral in the UK. Fatiaki stated the matter is urgent.
Lawyer Rusiate Doidoi, representing the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), requested time to prepare a response to the application. A ruling on the bail variation is expected next Tuesday.
Request for Electronic Devices
The defence has also filed a request for FICAC to release Charters’ electronic devices, arguing they are vital to his needs. Fatiaki asserted there is no reason for FICAC to continue holding the devices.
Doidoi responded that the devices were seized under a search warrant as part of an ongoing investigation. He stated the duration of the data extraction process is currently unknown and that FICAC requires time to respond.
Fatiaki indicated that his client’s device is being used to investigate another individual involved in the case and plans to address this during the hearing.
Further Legal Action
Fatiaki also informed the court of the intention to file a stay application, pending rulings on other related matters. He stated these rulings directly impact their case.
Charters is charged with two counts of aiding and abetting under the Crimes Act and remains on bail.
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