BY MELVILLE TITIULU
The Magistrate Court has imposed strict bail conditions on a man accused of committing domestic violence after it heard oral submissions from defence and prosecution yesterday.
The accused, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victim, was charged with one count of domestic violence and physical abuse. He is currently on remand at the Rove Correctional Centre.
The victim in this case is the wife of the accused person.
Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia presided over the matter when it came for mention.
Prosecuting counsel Mr Steward Beto told the court that he understands the defence is preparing bail application papers and suggested that the court impose strict bail conditions on the defendant.
Mr Beto reminded the court that the complainant and the defendant are husband and wife, and there is a real risk that the accused might reoffend and interfere with prosecution witnesses.
He further reminded the court that a similar incident of reoffending occurred this year, but that the charge was withdrawn by the Crown.
Defence counsel, Ms Sylvia Pitamama, on the other hand, informed the court that a reconciliation was held between the complainant and defendant with a view to keeping the peace.
Ms Pitamama further reminded the court that the defendant is the family provider and has the financial capacity to complete any bail conditions as imposed by the court.
She told the court that the defendant’s mother is in court and will pay for his bail conditions and promised that he will strive to abide by the set of bail conditions as imposed by the court.
Principal Magistrate Ben Alaisa asked the defence lawyer if the complainant and defendant are still in a relationship, to which Ms Pitamama confirmed.
The complainant, with her children and the defendant’s mother, were in attendance at the court yesterday.
Principal Magistrate Alaisa read out the strict bail conditions to the defendant standing at the dock. He directed that the defendant must pay $1000.00 cash bail, and must reside with his mother (Surety) and not interfere directly with the complainant and the prosecution witnesses.
The court also ordered that he must report to the police station every Wednesday, must strive to keep the peace and good behaviour and that he must attend all his court dates.
The main case was adjourned to May 20 for oral PTC preparation, where parties will attend court to set a proposed trial date.
Prosecution alleged that the accused, on December 24, 2025, physically abused his wife by kicking her head.
The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge of domestic violence when he was arraigned on May 6, 2026.
The offence of Domestic Violence attracts a penalty fine of $30,000 or 3-years imprisonment or both a fine and imprisonment.
Mr Steward Beto represents the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Ms Sylvia Pitamama of the Public Solicitors’ Office represents the accused.
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