TWO men facing separate criminal offences in the Russells, Central Province, have been remanded yesterday.
The first accused, Arnold Wate, of Malaita in his twenties was charged with arson for allegedly burning down a leaf hut kitchen.
He allegedly lit a dead coconut frond and lit the kitchen hut on 4 March, 2015 at a village at Russell.
Police alleged Wate claimed the complainant poisoned his sister.
The second accused of Temotu, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the 12 year-old victim, was charged with one count of rape.
Police alleged he raped the girl on 10 March 2015 at a village at Russell when her family was away at their bush garden.
Public Prosecutor Olivia Ratu made the remand application before Principal Magistrate Ricky Iomea who granted the application.
The two accused, who were escorted by police officers from Yandina, were remanded until April 1, where they will appear again for further mention.
Investigations into both cases are continuing.
Both accused are not yet legally represented.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
