THE trial of a woman accused of converting over $20,000 obtained from two women over false promises of work in Australia has been adjourned to 27 January 2026.
The defence will use this time to make a “no case to answer” submissions, arguing that the prosecution has not presented sufficient evidence to proceed with the charges.
Last week, the prosecution closed its case after calling the two complainants, who gave their evidences in court.
Loana Sisifiu faces 15 counts of Conversion, which replaced the original charges of Simple Larceny.
Sisifiu was originally charged with 17 counts of False Pretences, but those charges were later amended to 15 counts of Simple Larceny.
The charges were further amended to 15 counts of Conversion, which now form the basis of the current trial.
The prosecution alleged that between January and April 2023, in Honiara, Sisifiu obtained the money from the two complainants by promising that the funds would cover their airfare, visas and other travel expenses to Australia, as well as transportation costs upon arrival.
However, it was alleged Sisifiu converted the money for her own benefit.
Lazarus Waroka of Public Solicitor’s Office represents Sisifiu, while Public Prosecutor John Wesley Zoze appears for the Crown.
ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
