A WARRANT of arrest has been issued for a convicted man who escaped police custody in Buala, Isabel after police officers allowed him to leave briefly to collect his belongings from his uncle’s home.
Francis Goidi was found guilty last week after a trial for one count of Indecent Act during the Magistrate Court circuit in Buala.
Public Prosecutor Steward Tonowane told the court that the Provincial Police Commander (PPC) in Buala had arranged for an Outboard Motor to search for the accused at his home village in Tubi, where police believe he may be hiding.
He said the search is expected to take place on Thursday.
Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison issued a warrant of arrest for Goidi to be executed by Buala police and adjourned the matter to Friday for an update from police.
Goidi had been remanded in custody last Saturday following his conviction, pending sentencing submissions and sentencing.
However, in the early hours of the next day, between 4am and 5am, Goidi told police officers he wanted to collect his belongings from his uncle’s house.
He was permitted and left alone, but never returned to the Buala Police Station.
Officers later went to his uncle’s home to check on him, but Goidi was not there.
His uncle then contacted relatives, including those in nearby village, to inquire about his whereabouts, but was told that Goidi was not seen.
Goidi was convicted of touching the breasts of an 11-year-old girl in March this year.
During the trial, the prosecution called the victim as a witness, while the accused remained silent and did not call any other witnesses.
James Tetea of Public Solicitor’s Office represents Goidi, while Steward Tonowane appeared for the Crown.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
