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\cellx8748\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\pararsid4656450 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467\charrsid7240467 19 January,}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467\charrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467\charrsid7240467 2 February, 2001\cell }\pard 
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\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Act with intent to cause grievous harm \endash  assault occasioning actual bodily harm \endash  appeal against conviction and against committal
 to the High Court for sentencing - whether relationship of Appellant and }{\i\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 c}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
omplainant relevant to conviction \endash whether Magistrate erred in convicting the Appellant when there was insufficient evidence to support the convictions \endash  whether the prosecution failed to prove mens rea \endash 
 whether the Magistrate erred by receiving hearsay evidence \endash  whether the Magistrate erred in committing the Appellant to the High Court for sentencing without obtaining information of his character and antecedents \endash  whether retrial 
justified - Penal Code ss224(a), 245; Criminal Procedure Code ss169, 211(i), 222, 308(8)
\par 
\par Criminal practice and procedure \endash  whether appellate Court can consider appeal against conviction on a committal to the High Court for sentence 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Appellant was arrested for assaulting his uncle and was charged with 
one count of acting with intent of causing grievous bodily harm, and an alternative count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He was found guilty by the Lautoka Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
 Court and committed to the High Court for sentencing. He appealed against his conviction and against his committal to the High Court for sentencing under s222 of the Criminal Procedure Code.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The appellate Court found various irregularities in the trial: the charge was not explained to the Appellant; reconciliation was not considered; the substance of the charge was 
not explained to Appellant at the close of trial; evidence of weapon used as contained in the medical report was not disclosed in the record; medical report was not conclusive that the Appellant was responsible for injuries sustained by the complainant; 
prejudicial police statements tendered without objection; Magistrate did not consider elements of the offence; evidence did not sustain alternate minor offence; in short, the findings of the Magistrate did not accord with the evidence
 of witnesses. The Magistrate did not consider the elements of the offence in either Count 1 or Count 2 to conclude whether the Appellant was guilty of any of the two offences. Neither the }{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 actus rea}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  nor the }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 mens rea}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  on Count 1 were established. The Magistrate erred in looking at aggravating circumstances, rather than characteristics and antecedents of the unrepresented Appellant.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Held-}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 (1) When two offences an accused is charged with are put in the alternative, and it 
is not clear which offence was being proceeded with, on an accused}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 s plea of }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Not Guilty}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  it cannot be assumed that the Prosecution is proceeding with the more serious offence.
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\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 (2) The Magistrate had misdirected himself in focusing on the aggravating circumstances rather than the character and antecedents of the Appellant in sentencing, resulting in a 
miscarriage of justice. A retrial would breach Appellant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 s constitutional right to a fair trial within a reasonable time.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 (3) An appellate Court has powers to consider a conviction, being a final order of the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court, under amended s308 }{\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 cpc}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
, even though an Appellant was not sentenced and was committed to the High Court for sentencing. Notwithstanding that the convi
ction does not dispose of the matter the High Court has powers to deal with both interlocutory and final orders of the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court. 
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\par The Appellant is acquitted on both counts. No retrial ordered.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par [Note: Act 13/03 s8 substituted s222 of the Criminal Procedure Code wef 13 October 2003 and alters the procedure for transfer and the effect of sentencing in the High Court.]
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\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Cases referred to in Judgment}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
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\par }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Rt Ovini Bokini v State}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
(1999) 45 FLR 273
\par }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 R v Harris}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  (1969) Cr. App. R. 376
\par }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 {\*\bkmkstart R_v_Cummerson_Akuila_v_State}R v Cummerson }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 (1968) 2 All ER 863
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\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Anu Patel for the Appellant
\par Davendra Prasad for the Respondent.
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\ql \li1872\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1872\pararsid4225951 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid4225951 JUDGMENT \cell }\pard 
\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid4225951 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow 
\ts17\trgaph108\trleft-108\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tblrsid4225951\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl 
\clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1908\clshdrawnil \cellx1800\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6948\clshdrawnil \cellx8748\row }\pard 
\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Prakash, J}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 This is an appeal against the conviction of the Appellant by the Lautoka Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court and his committal to the High Court for sentencing under {\*\bkmkstart s222_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}Section 222 {\*\bkmkend s222_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}of the Criminal Procedure Code.

\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Appellant appeared for trial for the following offences:
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }\pard\plain \s3\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel2\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7240467 \b\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
First Count
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7240467 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
Act With Intent to Cause Grievous Harm: Contrary to {\*\bkmkstart s224_a_PC_AM_Lutu_v_State}Section 224 (a) {\*\bkmkend s224_a_PC_AM_Lutu_v_State}of the Penal Code, Cap 17.
\par 
\par AKUILA MARAIVALU LUTU on the 19th day of February, 1996 at Lautoka in the Western Division, with intent to cause grievous harm to PENI KORO NAQASE, unlawfully wounded the said PENI NAQASE by punching and kicking.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s3\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel2\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7240467 \b\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
Second Count
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7240467 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 (Alternative)
\par Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm:\tab Contrary to {\*\bkmkstart s245_PC_AM_Lutu_v_State}Section 245 {\*\bkmkend s245_PC_AM_Lutu_v_State}of the Penal Code, Cap. 17.
\par 
\par AKUILA MARAIVALU LUTU: on the 19th day of February, 1996 at Lautoka in the Western Division, assaulted PENI NAQASE and thereby occasioning him actual bodily harm.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He pleaded Not Guilty to both the counts put to him.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
He was tried and convicted for what offence is not clear.
\par 
\par The Petition of Appeal states as follows (excluding the charges)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1.\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 That on the 1st day of December, 2000 your Petitioner was convicted by the Magistrate}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 s Court at Lautoka of the following offences:-
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2.\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 That upon his conviction for the said offence your Petitioner was committed to the High Court for sentencing pursuant to Section 222 of the Criminal Procedure Code:
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3.\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 That your Petitioner desires to appeal against the said conviction and committed to the High Court for sentencing upon the following grounds:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 a)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\ilvl1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Learned Magistrate erred in law and in fact in convicting the Appellant when there was insufficient evidence to support convictions on either of the said two offences.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 b)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\ilvl1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The prosecution failed to prove the mental element of intent to cause grievous bodily harm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 c)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\ilvl1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Learned Magistrate erred in law and in fact in receiving hearsay evidence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 d)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\ilvl1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Learned Magistrate erred in law and in fact in committing the Appellant to the High Court for sentencing without obtaining information of his character and antecedents.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 e)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\ilvl1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Appellant will seek leave to apply for this Honourable Court to add to the above grounds of appeal upon receipt of the Court records in this matter.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court reco
rd does not state what offence the Appellant has been committed for sentencing by the High Court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
However it is obvious that the learned Magistrate has apparently committed Appellant for Count 1 \endash  Act With Intent to Cause Grievous Bodily Harm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 This is the type of o
ffence for which a Magistrate, having obtained information as to an accused character and antecedents, and is of the opinion that they are such that greater punishment should be inflicted in respect of the offence than the Magistrate has power to inflict.
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 In committing the Appellant to the High Court the learned Magistrate stated as follows:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
Because of the nature of the injuries and the seriousness of the charge given the aggravating circumstances of this case, I am of the view that I will commit the Accused for sentencing to the High Court under Section 222 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The aggravating circumstances are stated in the following terms:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi28\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7240467 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
That you being a Police Officer entrusted with duty to protect members of the public. You betrayed that trust.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
Assaulted, wounded a member of the public supposedly in your care.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Further the victim is your uncle.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
And further more, a Police officer obtained liquor illegally, consumed the same, after which you committed the offence (see page 12 of the record).
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is clear that the learned Magistrate misdirected himself in focusing on the aggravating circumstances rather than the character and antecedents of the Appellant.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The relationship of the complainant to the Appellant and the fact that Appellant
 was a Police Officer are not in themselves relevant to character and antecedents.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
In any case was the complainant in the care of the Appellant?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The issue of Appellant being a Police Officer }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 obtaining liquor at illegally}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  is not based on facts in the record.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
In any case this Court does not need to dwell on the Section 222 committal at this stage since the Appellant has appealed against the conviction on either of the two offences that were before the Magistrates}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court.
\par 
\par The Court has powers to consider the conviction since that is a final order of the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Even if that conviction does not dispose of the matter since Appellant
 was not sentenced the High Court has powers to deal with both interlocutory and final orders of the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
 Court under the amended Section {\*\bkmkstart s308_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}308{\*\bkmkend s308_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State} of the Criminal Procedure Code (see case of }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
{\*\bkmkstart Rt_Ovini_Bokini_v_State_AM_Lutu_v_State}Ratu Ovini Bokini v State}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 {\*\bkmkend Rt_Ovini_Bokini_v_State_AM_Lutu_v_State},}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 FCA Cr. App. Nos AAU0001 of 1999S and AAU0003 of 1999S).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par 
\par Archbold also suggests that a superior court could deal with the conviction on a committal for sentencing (see Archbold 38th Edition, paras 754-756).
\par 
\par There were many irregularities in the proceedings in the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 
 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Appellant was unrepresented.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 T
he two offences he was charged with were put in the alternative.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is not clear which offence was being proceeded with.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 There is no authority submitted nor can the Court find, that when two offences are put in the alternative and the accused pleads }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 not guilty}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  to both then it is assumed that the Prosecution is proceeding with the more serious offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 As was stated by Lord Justice Edmund Davies in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 {\*\bkmkstart R_v_Harris_AM_Lutu_v_State}R v Harris}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 {\*\bkmkend R_v_Harris_AM_Lutu_v_State}(1969) Cr. App. R.376 at 379: }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It does not 
seem to this Court right or desirable that one and the same incident should be made the subject matter of the distinct charges so that hereafter it may appear to those not familiar with the circumstances that two entirely separate offences were committed.
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
Were this permitted generally, a single offence could frequently given rise to a multiplicity of charges and great unfairness could ensue.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 In this case there was no opening address by the Prosecution in terms of {\*\bkmkstart s213_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}Section 213 {\*\bkmkend s213_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}of the Criminal}{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Procedure Code.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 As such the Appellant did not know what charge was being proceeded with.
\par 
\par It is clear that any accused person, especially an unrepresented accused, should been clear as to what charge he is defending.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 In
 this case the charge in Court 2 was a less serious charge.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It was also a reconcilable offence as per 
{\*\bkmkstart s163_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}section 163 {\*\bkmkend s163_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}of the Criminal Procedure Code.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
As such it was incumbent upon the Court to consider reconciliation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 This was raised according to the Court records.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 When the Appellant being his cross-examination of the Complainant (PW 1) the following is recorded:
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Cross Examination:}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Accused:}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Complainant does not wish to proceed.
\par 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Witness:}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Before the case, ac
cused came to me with a soro for reconciliation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 I accepted it.
\par 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Prosecution:}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 I do not know about the reconciliation.

\par 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Accused:}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
I meant to do the soro, as reconciliation to mend our relationship, but not admitting what I have been charged with.
\par 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Prosecution:}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
May be we need time to talk with the accused.
\par 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Accused:}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4225951  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Wish to cross examine.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is clear that the Court did not direct its mind to the issue of reconciliation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 At that stage not much evidence was led.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
In the absence of any reconciliation the Prosecution should have indicated that they were proceeding with the more serious count.
\par 
\par It is also noted at the end of the Prosecution case the Court ruled that }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 there is a prime facie case}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
For what offence it is not clear.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 What was the Appellant defending himself against?}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 There was a breach of {\*\bkmkstart s211_i_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}s.211{\*\bkmkend s211_i_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}(i) of the 
Criminal Procedure Code.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 This states: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 At the close of the evidence in support of the charge, it appears to the Court that a case is made out against the accused person sufficiently to require him to make a defence, }{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 the court shall again explain the substance of the charge to the Accused}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \'85.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  (emphasis added).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 There is no record that this was done at the end of the Prosecution case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 As such the Prosecution case was not evident to the Appellant who was unrepresented.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He did not know what charge he was defending himself against.
\par 
\par The Court will now consider the evidence on Count 1.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
It is clear from the Court records that only two persons (PW2) and (PW6) witnessed the incident that led to the charges against the Appellant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 According to PW2 he saw }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
one Fijian man badly assaulted another Fijian man.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He was kicking as well.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Both were standing after the assault the other fell down.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
The person who assaulted the other went away when he dell down.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The man who fell down crossed the road to public toilet.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 PW2 stated that he did not recognize }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 who those two people were.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
According to PW2 the person who assaulted was arrested near the public toilet at Narara Parade.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
He could not identify the person who assaulted the victim.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 PW6 was doing his regular morning exercise on the morning on 19/02/96.}
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He saw }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 two men, one fisting the other.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He identified the Appellant
 as the man fisting.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He is a police}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 PW6 knew the Appellant from before.
\par }\pard \s16\ql \fi374\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4225951 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Medical Report on the complainant was tendered apparently without objection.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The report has some surprising information given the evidence of the Complainant (PW1) in Court.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 According to the Medical Report the history related by patient states: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He was involved in a drunken brawl with a friend when he was punched and stabbed with a broken bottle.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The diagnosis states: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
Consistent with being stabbed with a sharp object with jagged edge,}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Other injuries if any are not noted.
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par It is clear from the evidence in the records that no one witnessed any use of a beer bottle or any other weapon/instrument in the incident.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 No such items were found near the scene.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
It is clear from the evidence of (PW1) the Complainant, that he had completely blacked out, he was completely drunk.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 As he state }
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 I could not recall whether I went out of the Police barrack.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is, therefore, not clear and not in evidence where and when the complainant was stabbed with a broken beer bottle or any sharp object.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 According to PW2 the person, who fell down, apparently the complainant, crossed the road to the public toilet.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He did not notice any bleeding.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Given the medical report there was considerable loss of blood since the complainant, had blood transfusion.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He did not notice any bleeding.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
Given the medical report there was considerable loss of blood since the complainant had blood transfusion.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
There was no evident that the Appellant was responsible for the injuries described in the Medical Report.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
The stabbing could have happened before or after the incident described by PW2 and PW6.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
There could have been a possibility that the Complainant (PW1) who does not remember anything, could have fallen on a broken beer bottle after the incident in from of J.R White shop.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is also relevant to note the evidence of PW3, a Police Officer, who first went to the scene.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He states: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 On 19/02/96 I atte
nded a report at Churchill Park.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 A Fijian man was lying in a pool of blood near public toilet in Churchill Park.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  He further states that he saw Constable Akuila the Appellant }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 coming out from Verona Street to Yawini Street}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
 It is clear that the Appellant was quite a distance from the scene where the complainant was found in a pool of blood.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 While 
Appellant had fresh blood stains on his clothes and was drunk these do not link him to any injuries records in the Medical report on the complainant.
\par 
\par The findings by the learned Magistrate in his judgment does not accord with the evidence of the witnesses.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
It is not clear how the learned Magistrate found that }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The two men fought across Vitogo Parade to the public toilet by Narara}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  (p11).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Other matters noted do not link the accused to the offence in Count 1.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The learned Magistrate notes the injuries as per the Medical Report.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 As he notes: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
these are consistent with being stabbed with a sharp object with rugged edge}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 .}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 However, the next few paragraphs of the judgment do not deal with relevant facts material to the offence.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is not clear what is the relevance of the complainant stating that the Accused/Appellant
 is a relative, his nephew and that he is a Police Officer.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is further stated that }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 As serving policemen then the Accused gave his uncle $20.00 to buy beer.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Later, after sometimes they got more liquor, obviously from illegal sources at the instigation of a serving policeman.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The Learned Magistrate did acknowledge that the complainant }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
was completely drunk in his words he blacked out.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He became conscious when he awoke at Lautoka Hospital Recovery Ward.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He lost consciousness as he said in his statement to the police which he read in Court}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 

\par 
\par The tendering of PW1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 s police statement was highly irregular.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 No foundation was laid by the Prosecution for tendering it.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
It was highly prejudicial to the Appellant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
It was apparently from this statement that the learned Magistrate formed an opinion that liquor was obtained from illegal sources.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 In any case PW1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
s plain statement did not shed any light on the offences the Appellant was charge with.
\par 
\par Given the evidence before the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court this Court cannot understand how the learned Magistrate found that }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 There is overwhelming evidence that the accused did commit the offence as charged.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is still not clear what offence the accused committed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 The learned Magistrate did not consider the elements of the offence in either Count 1 or alternative Count 2 to conclude whether the Appellant was guilty of any of the two offences.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Neither the actus reus nor the mens rea on Count 1 were established.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Count 1 states in the particulars that the Appellant }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 \'85
Unlawfully wounded the complainant (Peni Naqase) punching and kicking.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
The medical report did not establish that the serious injuries noted were the consequences of any punching and kicking.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
The conviction on Count 1 is unsafe.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 It is set aside and the Appellant acquitted.
\par 
\par What then does the Court do with Count 2?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Under {\*\bkmkstart s169_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}Section 169 
{\*\bkmkend s169_CPC_AM_Lutu_v_State}of the Criminal Procedure Code the Appellant could have been convicted of a complete minor offence if the particulars were proved. However, in this case he was charged with the minor offence in the alternative.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 In my view the evidence on the record does not make out the alternative count.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Further, given the substantial irregularities in the proceedings in the Magistrates}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court it will be unjust to uphold any conviction entered against the Appellant, nor to order a retrial on the alternative Count.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Any retrial on count 2 would breach the Appellant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 s Constitutional right to a fair trial within a reasonable time. The charges in this case arose out of incidents in February 1996, almost 5 years ago.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 According to the records (p7) the Appellant
 was discharged on the charges earlier due to the non-appearance of the complainant witness.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 He was recharged in April 2000.

\par 
\par The Court further considers that the lesser offence on Count 2 merged with that on Count 1 (see }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 R v Harris}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 supra, and Archbold}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 (43rd
 edition) para 7-43).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Even if the Appellant was convicted on both Counts the Court will quash the conviction on the lesser.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 There was a substantial miscarriage of justice against the Appellant who was unrepresented in the Magistrates}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467  Court.
\par 
\par The end result is that the Appellant is acquitted on both Courts.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7240467  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
As such the Court does not need to deal with the issue of committal under Section 222 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7240467 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 
\par Appeal allowed.
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11366646\charrsid7240467 Alesi Macedru and Marie Chan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1972231\charrsid4225951 
\par }}