Man accused of stealing walks free, no evidence by police

A MAN accused of breaking into a trade store with other accomplices at Manu in Port Moresby and allegedly stealing goods and cash, walked free yesterday for “want of police files”.
Magistrate Tracy Ganaii in the Waigani Committal Court yesterday discharged Aleni Damaya, 33, of Nupulu village in Lufa, Eastern Highlands, on the charges of breaking and entering and stealing after police failed to produce any evidence to the court.
The offences were allegedly committed by Damaya and more than 10 men who broke into Hogi Trading shop at the Manu Autoport, cutting off the bar gate and the steel door to gain entry.
It was alleged that the items taken were liquor, clothing, mobile phones, watches, boom boxes and cash totalling K800.
They allegedly broke into the manager’s office and stole a five-round revolver pistol and the close circuit television (CCTV) monitor.
Police prosecutor Sgt Joseph Sangam told the court that there was no evidence from the investigating officer.
“I have spoken to the investigating officer, he was unable to respond and he is on leave,” he said.