Family of four-year-old Martin, in prison for more than two years, can seek bail

News that matter in Papua New Guinea

Family of four-year-old Martin, in prison for more than two years, can seek bail

PORT MORESBY: Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika says four-year-old Martin’s parents and guardians can apply for bail anytime.

Marti has been living in Bomana Prison for more than two years after his parents and guardians were arrested for alleged sorcery-related violence (SRV).

The sad case of Martin, having to live in prison, was brought to the court’s attention following a media publication on Jan 3, 2023 (by The National).

Boy’s family can seek bail

January 6, 2023The NationalMain Stories

By AILEEN KWARAGU
CHIEF Justice Sir Gibbs Salika says four-year-old Martin’s parents and guardians can apply for bail anytime.
Martin has been living in Bomana Prison for more than two years after his parents and guardians were arrested for alleged sorcery-related violence (SRV).
“Bail application for Martin’s family can be applied for anytime,” he said.
“Martin and his family’s case was brought to the court’s attention following a media publication on Jan 3 (by The National).
“The court has called the five defendants because of a media publication in The National news on Tuesday.
“I will adjourn this matter to hear bail applications that will be filed by counsel representing all five defendants.”
Martin’s mother Saitava Steven, his father Akeikei Topiro, grandfather Topiro Nanai, aunty Negevia Topiro and uncle Tobue Topiro from Ero in Kikori, Gulf, were arrested by Kerema Police in June 2020, for SRV after the death of a woman in their village.
For the last two years, they have not attended any court hearing until November, during a Kerema court circuit.
The matter was then adjourned to this year after witnesses in their case failed to attend court.
Sir Gibbs adjourned Martin’s family case to today at 1.30 pm to hear their bail application by lawyer David Kayok.

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