THE defence case for a police officer accused of bribing an investigator involved in a stolen gold ashes case with $30,000 will commence on November 17.
The accused, Allen Noni, faces two counts of Bribery.
During court proceedings yesterday, the defence confirmed it will call two witnesses, including Noni himself, when the defence case opens next month..
The trial began in June, during which the prosecution called three witnesses to testify.
At the close of the prosecution’s case, Noni’s lawyer submitted a no-case-to answer motion, arguing that the evidence presented was insufficient to establish a case against his client.
However, Principal Magistrate Emily Zazariko Vagibule Pakoa ruled that there was sufficient evidence for Noni to answer to the charges and he is required to present his defence.
Noni is charged in relation to an investigation into a stolen gold ashes case, worth $2.6 million, in Honiara.
It is alleged that while serving as part of the investigation team, Noni bribed the lead investigator with $30,000 to drop inquiries into the defendant, Max Gura’s involvement in the case.
The bribe was allegedly intended to shift the focus to Peter Olben, the prime suspect.
The events unfolded on 8 November 2024, w hen Noni allegedly sent a text message to the lead investigator, requesting a meeting, and later handed over $10,000 at Town ground area, with two other police officers witnessing the meeting.
Four days later, Noni allegedly gave the lead investigator an additional $20,000 at Henderson area, bringing the total to $30,000.
Donation Houa from the Public Solicitor’s Office is representing Noni, while Public Prosecutor
Jeremy Oiofa is prosecuting.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
