Man on trial over murder

A MAN who allegedly used a pocket knife to stab to death businessman Jeffery Paul Bull in Port Moresby in 2019 will stand trial in the National Court.
Committal Court Magistrate Paul Nii on Wednesday said there was sufficient evidence against Alexander Genia, 30, of Lalaura village in Abau, Central, to be tried in the higher court on a charge of wilful murder.
Magistrate Nii said the issues of provocation and self-defence could be raised during the trial.
He said Genie’s record of interview and statement showed that he attacked Bull after being provoked for some failed business deals and in self-defence.
“Even though (Genia’s) argument on this submission appears essential, it will not change the sufficiency of evidence at the committal court but may determine sentence or alter the charge after indictment is presented in the National Court,” he said.
“That is something for the National Court to decide, not me.”
Police alleged that Genia was last seen with Bull at Section 55, Allotment 7 along Sore Street in Gordon, Port Moresby on Sept 19, 2019, between 9pm and 2am.
The property is allegedly owned by Genia’s father, Allan Tan of Malaysian origin, rented out to Solomon Tarrobal.
Police alleged that Genia told security guards who were manning the property to go and buy betel nuts.
Police alleged that while the guards were away, Genia had an argument with Bull over some unsettled and failed business deals.
Genia allegedly stabbed Bull several times with a pocket knife.
Police identified the victim as Jeffery Paul Bull of Mul Baiyer in Western Highlands.