Liliura files application to dismiss charges against him

SUSPENDED Commerce and Trade Department secretary Andrew Liliura filed a submission yesterday in the Waigani Committal Court seeking to dismiss his case for inconsistency in charges laid by police.
The submission presented by Liliura’s lawyer argued that the complainant made complaints at three police stations regarding the matter against Liliura.
In the submission, Liliura argued that the statement filed in the stations at Waigani, Gordon and Boroko were inconsistent and fabricated and there were no concrete evidence to make a case.
The submission alleged that there were inconsistency in the victim’s statements at all three police stations.
However, prosecutor Sgt John Wamugl argued that there were no inconsistencies in the case.
“The complaints lodged at the police stations are not inconsistent but true despite being circumstantial, there are evidences,” he said.
“The police statements have listed witnesses.”
Through the submission, Liliura argued that the complainant initially lodged a formal complaint at the Waigani Police Station, however, did not pursue the matter.
She then went to the Gordon Police Station where she lodged another complaint – of assault.
She then lodged another complaint at Boroko Police Station.
Liliura, 50, from Bubusi village in Talasea, West New Britain, is charged with sexual abuse.
Liliura was alleged to have sexually harassed Megki Gaunts (complainant).
It is alleged that Liliura, at the Commerce and Industry Department at Waigani, on Feb 18 touched Gaunts’ breast without her consent.
Liliura then allegedly sexually assaulted Gaunts in her office.
In her statement, Gaunts alleged that Liliura sexually harassed her on many occasions.
Magistrate Cosmas Bidar adjourned the matter for ruling on the submission on a date to be advised.