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\widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\hyphcaps0\formshade\horzdoc\dghspace0\dgvspace0\dghorigin0\dgvorigin0\dghshow0\dgvshow0\jexpand\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot13176213 \fet0\sectd \linex0\headery360\footery360\endnhere\sectdefaultcl\sectrsid13843962\sftnbj {\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3 \pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}} {\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 \fs20\cf1\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 IN THE S}{ \b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8744503 UPREME COURT OF F}{\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529\charrsid5969529 IJI \par (W}{\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid5969529 ESTERN DIVISION}{\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529\charrsid5969529 ) \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13843962 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid5969529 AT LAUTOKA}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529\charrsid13176213 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13843962 APPELLATE JURISDICTION}{ \b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529\charrsid13843962 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13843962 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13843962 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 Criminal A}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 ppeal No.}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13843962 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 81 of}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 1977}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10970639 BETWEEN}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529\charrsid5969529 ABHI RAM \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 s/o Rameshwar \par Appellant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 AND \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529\charrsid5969529 REGINAM \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 Respondent \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13176213 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 \par Mr.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9126765 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 Pillay and Mr. Tappoo, Counsel for the Appellant \par Mr. Ikbhal Khan, Counsel for the Respondent \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5969529 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529\charrsid5969529 JUDGMENT}{\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5969529 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3684293 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3684293\charrsid5969529 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13176213 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 The appellant was convicted before a Magistrate for an act intended to cause grievous bodily }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3684293 harm}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 contrary to Section 255(a) o}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13964462 f}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 Penal Code, which carries a maximum penalty of imprisonment for life.}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13176213\charrsid13176213 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3684293 I}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 t is a very serious offence. Not only must grievous bodily harm be caused but it must have been the accused's intention to cause such harm.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3684293\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 When charged the appellant had pleaded guilty and the facts outlined by the prosecution showed that}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9270819 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 the accused and the complainan}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9270819 t}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 were neighbouring far}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9270819 mers}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 . There had been a dispute when the complainant out the grass in the drain separating the farms and the accused throw the grass back into the drain. The complainant called a member of the Advisory Council who settled the matter, but then as they were going away the accused s}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10450181 truck at the complainant with a}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 hoe.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13176213\charrsid13176213 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 Injuries were caused to the complainant by way of a cut on his scalp and bruises on the forearms.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6315062\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 In admitting the facts the accused said he used}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 the haft of the hoe and not the blade although the outline of facts had suggested otherwise. }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 He also stated that the complai}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 nant was alway}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid9126765 s}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 annoying }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 him and swearing at him}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 .}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 The medical report revealed the injuries I have described and the accused admitted it.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 The appeal is directed against the conviction for causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 also complains that the sentence of 18 months was too severe.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 The Crown does no}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 t oppose the grounds of appeal.}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 It was submitted by Mr. Pillay for the appellant that there was no evidence at all to indicate that the complainant was detained in hospital. The medical}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 report makes no such reference, and it is obvious that the complai}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 nant's injuries were far from s}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 eri}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 o}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 us.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13176213\charrsid13176213 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 There is no sug}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 gestion}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 that the complainant was }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298544\charrsid13176213 incapacitate}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298544 d}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747 for even a day or lost anytime}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 o}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid6255124 f}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 f work.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7422747\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 Wi}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 th respect I would direct the }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 attention of the learned Magistrate to the fact that the words "grievous bodily harm" mean just that.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13176213\charrsid13176213 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 It has to be}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298544 an injury which amounts to}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298544 a }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 mai}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9570179 m}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 or dangerous harm. This is indicated in Section 4 of the Penal Code in defining or explaining what is m}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 ea}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 nt by grievous harm, and it goes on to say that it must ser}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 iously}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 injure or permanently injure health, or that it should be likely to seriously or permanently injure health, or cause per}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 manent }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 di}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 s}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 figur}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 e}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 m}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 e}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 nt, or cause permanent injury (or da}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186 mage) to any external}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 or internal organ, member or sense.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14238186\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 I am sure that on reflection the learned }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11951825 M}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 agistra}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11951825 te would concur that the minor c}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 ut on}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5529982 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11951825 the scalp and the bruise on each fore}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 a}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11951825 rm}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 could not possibly bring the offence within the definition of grievous bodily harm.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11951825\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 There was of cou}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5529982 r}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 se so}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5529982 me}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 bodily harm.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13176213\charrsid13176213 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 One cannot deny that bruising and a scalp injury does amount to a hurt or harm. However, the legislation differentiates strongly and widely between bodily harm and grievous bodily har}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5529982 m}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 .}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5529982\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 Section 4 of Penal Code describes "harm" as}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2759371 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 any bodily hurt, disease or disorder whether permanent or temporary. If the bodily hurt is }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2759371 permanent it will no doubt come}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 within the description of "grievous bodily harm." If it is temporary and of short duration and not dangerous, as in th}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2759371 e instant cas}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 e one cannot regar}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2759371 d it as more than "non-grievous}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 " bodily har}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2759371 m or hurt. Causing of such lesse}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 r injuries}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5326232 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 is covered by S.277 of Penal Code.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5326232\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 There is no doubt on the facts as admitted by the accused that the offence did not amount to a grievous bodily h}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5326232 arm but simply to "harm" under S}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 .277 of Penal Code. The lesser offence carries a maximum of 5 years i}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5326232 mprisonment}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 and in imposing sentence the Magistrate has to be guided by the extent }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5326232 of the harm}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 caused. If it falls just short of grievous}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5326232 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 it calls for a higher sentence}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5326232 than if it is a slight injury. \par \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 In}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8676936 passing sentence the Magistrate}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 referred}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8676936 }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 to my judgment in }{\b\i\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid8676936 Regina v. Shaukat Ali}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8676936 , Cr. Ap}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 peal}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4195747 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 44/76 in which I drew attention to the prevalent }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9570179 use}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 of cane knives in the west of Fiji during quarrels and as}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676 sa}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 ults and the need to inhibit such tendencies by appropriate sent}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676 e}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 nces.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13328867 Nevertheless an accu}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 sed who uses a cane knife to cause grievous bodily harm will be liable to a much more severe sentence than one who, although using a}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 cane knife, only inflicts }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676 minor}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 injuries.}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 One must bear in mind not only the weapon used but the seriousness of the }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676 injuries}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 inflicted. The extent of the injuries will help to indicate the amount of malice, vindictiveness, etc. behind the attack which shoul}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676 d be reflected in the sentence}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 .}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14570676\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 In the instant case it would appear that t}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 he complainant put up his arms }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 to defend himself and in that way he probably received the bruises on his forearms, whilst some part of the hoe obviously struck his head and cut it.}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 The prosecution should}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 not have cha}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13328867 rged the appellant under S.255}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 (a) of Penal Code. The facts did not justify bringing such a charge. I think that it should be emphasised to the police that they shou}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 ld }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 give }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 m}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 ore consideration to the charge selected }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 in such circumstances and not to }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 place too }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 much}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 of a burden upon busy M}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2842569 agistrates in having to me}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 ticulo}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 usly check the charges put before them.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 I notice that in Cr. Appeal 34 and 35}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4618770 /}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 77 the learned Chief Justice, wher}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 e there had bee}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 n a plea}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14942628 }{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 of guilty un}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759961 der}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4467473 S. 255(a}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 ) of Penal Code reduced the conviction to one under S.277 of Penal Code. }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4467473 I}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 follow the sa}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4467473 me}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 course. \par \par There is some doubt as to whether the appellant a}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 imed a}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 t the complainant w ith the haft or the blade of the hoe. In the circu}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 mstances}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 the doubt not having}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 be}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 en resolved, the ap}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 pellant}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 must have the benefit of that doubt and of course this will have to be reflected in the sentence.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 The conviction under Section 255(a) P.C. is set}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 aside and replaced by one for the lesse}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 r offenc}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 e of assault occasioning actual}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 bodily harm contrary to Section 277.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159\charrsid13176213 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 The sentence is reduced fro}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4618770 m}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 18 months to one of 3 months i}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 m}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 prison}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 ment}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 and when remission is }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 taken into account it would seem the appell}{ \fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 ant will have little }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 time}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 , if any, left to serve.}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1642159 {\b\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159\charrsid1642159 (Sgd.) J.T. Williams \par JUDGE}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159\charrsid13176213 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13176213 {\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13328867 \par }{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 LAUTOKA, \par 15th Au}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1642159 g}{\fs24\cf0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15741148\charrsid13176213 ust, 1977 \par }}