Murder accused acquitted after state fails to prove identity

National

A MAN charged with causing grievous bodily harm and attempted murder was acquitted by the Waigani National Court last week.
Justice Panuel Mogish found Aiyele Kune, from Southern Highlands, not guilty after the State failed to establish the identity of the accused as the perpetrator.
The court heard that on March 9, 2012, Tom Wembi Paia went to drop a friend at his brother’s house where he was confronted by the accused.
The court was told that an argument took place between Kune and Paia.
The argument resulted in the severing of Paia’s right hand by the accused with a bush knife.
Kune told the court that he had no knowledge of the incident because he was at his house with his family.
He also told the court that he was shocked when he was told of his alleged involvement in the offence.
Justice Mogish said that Kune’s residence was not close to where the incident occurred.