HEAVY rain in Malaita Province recently has hindered the completion of a police investigation into a murder in East Kwaio last month.
The defendant, Jimson Safoa, is facing one count of murder in relation to the murder that occurred near Jordan Village on June 12.
Police Prosecutor Nickson Tonowane, who appeared without the file as it was still with the Atori Police in Malaita, on Wednesday said the police were yet to complete their investigation.
He said outstanding documents yet to be collected were the photo of the crime scene and statements from three civilian witnesses.
Mr Tonowane added that police made an attempt to reach the village, but turned back at the first crossing at Kwaibata River due flooding.
The court heard that in order to reach the village, one has to walk upstream and cross the Kwaibaita River nine times.
As a result, Mr Tonowane sought an adjournment to allow police to complete their investigation.
Deputy Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea granted an adjournment till September 10, and further remanded Safoa in custody.
It was alleged that on 12 June this year, Safoa went to attend a custom settlement ceremony along a nearby stream not far from Jordan River.
The custom settlement ceremony was over an infidelity incident involving Safoa’s brother in-law (sister’s husband) and one of Safoa’s other sisters.
During the settlement, the deceased allegedly attacked Safoa, striking him with a bush knife.
Safoa felt pain and pulled out his bush knife and struck back at the deceased, cutting one of his hands which resulted in severe bleeding and death.
The matter was then reported to the police, resulting in the arrest of Safoa.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
