Man accused over death of Chinese identified

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 18 September 2018, 12:00AM

A man accused of the death of a Chinese man earlier this month has been identified as Ta’uinaola Laupu’a, of Salelavalu, Gataivai and Vaitele-fou.

The 31-year-old appeared before Chief Justice, His Honour Patu Tiava’asu’e Falefatu Sapolu yesterday.

Leone Su’a-Mailo, of the Attorney General’s Office, sought a two-week adjournment to finalise the charges.

Chief Justice Patu granted the application.

He also asked Laupu’a whether he wants a lawyer to represent him.

He said yes.

Chief Justice Patu then told the accused that two weeks is enough time to find a lawyer. 

“If you cannot afford a lawyer, then you must tell the prison officers to take you the office of the registrar so you can fill out a form to apply for legal aid,” he said.

The matter was adjourned to 1 October 2018.

The family of the deceased was seen inside the Courtroom with a picture of the deceased.

According to Police reports, the accused is charged with robbery and murder.

The deceased was identified by his wife, Shine Meli as Charles Chao.

She said her husband had injuries to his head and face, and he was a volunteer at the Anglican School at Leifiifi. 

Mr. Chao and wife have a six months old son.

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 18 September 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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