BY MELVILLE TITIULU
The case against a man accused of stealing gold from the Gold Ridge has been further adjourned for Monday 23th February, 2026.
The matter was initially listed for sentencing on Friday, February 20th at the last mention but was adjourned in court on that day.
The new mention date is set for Monday 23th February, 2026 for ruling on sentencing.
Magistrate Ben Alasia informed court on Friday morning as per instruction from Principal Magistrate Hollison of his unavailability to hear the matter as he had other personal commitment to attend to.
Consequently, Bail for Mr Loke was also extended.
At the last mention, Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison heard oral submissions from both prosecution and defence counsel on the matter in the form of written submissions tendered in court.
Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison will weigh mitigating and aggravating features as tendered, in reaching a ruling on the sentencing range for the defendant come Monday 23th February.
Mr Loke, from Haimane village, Tina area, Central Guadalcanal was charged with one count of housebreaking and committing felony contrary to section 300 (a) of the Penal code.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.
This was in relation to an incident that took place on October 11, 2025 where the defendant Aron Loke, 33, was accused of stealing 32.5 grammes of carbon gold valued at $28,000.
The complainant in this matter is Gold Ridge Mining limited.
Fransisca Luza from the office of the Director of Prosecution represented Gold Ridge Mining Limited.
Defence Counsel Wally Hatingonga from Public Solicitors Office appeared for the defense.
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