Court prevents police from deporting 14 Fijians

THE National Court yesterday granted interim orders stopping the 14 Fijianssecurity personel from being expelled from PNG.
The Fijians and their employer, Simberi Gold Company Ltd, went to court, questioning the legality of the Fijians’ arrest at the mine site on Simberi, in the Tabar Group of islands in New Ireland province.
They were flown to Kavieng and then to Port Moresby, accompanied by 15 policemen from the Tomaringa-based Mobile Squad 18.
They were due to be deported today but National Court judge, Justice Ere Kariko, intervened with the interim orders and adjourned the case to Feb 3 for a full hearing.
Justice Kariko ordered that:
* The 14 Fijians undertake not to leave the National Capital District;
* They will continue to reside at the Noko Street, Guest House, Boroko, or similar accommodation provided by the State at the expense of the State.
* They will report to Boroko police station daily, between of 9am and 12 noon; and
* They will not be removed from the National Capital District until further orders.
Their lawyers, O’Brien Lawyers, said yesterday that contempt of a court decision could result in the jailing of officers involved.
Police Commissioner Gari Baki said late yesterday that he was not aware of the court decision.
Mr Baki said this was an immigration issue.