Tomuriesas’ case dismissed

National

WAIGANI Committal Court Magistrate Cosmas Bidar on Tuesday struck out a money-laundering court case against Kiriwina-Goodenough MP Douglas Tomuriesa and his wife Rachael for want of prosecution.
Police failed to provide instructions for the case which started in 2013 over allegations of money laundering and misappropriation of K6 million State fund levelled against the couple.
The court ordered that charges against Tomuriesa and wife be struck out for want of prosecution and bail money refunded.
In a press conference Tomuriesa, explained that the court case had disturbed him for some months.
“I haven’t visited my electorate for five months and this case has greatly tarnished my reputation” he said.
“It’s not a new case, the case started in 2013, there were allegations of possible breach of contract awarded to my company by the State. But if there is a case against me, why was there are no evidence brought to the court by police and it has taken so long.”
Tomuriesa explained that he provided the fraud squad with all the necessary files of contract on their request but no instructions where given to the court by police.
The case against the Tomuriesa’s emanated out of a contract cleared by the state solicitor to release funds to enable Tomuriesa’s company to carry out its obligations under the contract.
The obligation of the contract was to deliver roofing irons to South Fly district
The bulk of iron roofing was delivered in Daru on advice from the late Aide Ganasi’s office.
However, the late Ganasi insisted that the delivery in specific villages be done through South Fly district office and administration, which seemed outside the contract terms but within the late MP’s electoral programme.
“I want to make it clear to my electorate, family members, staff and those who support me, that the matter has gone before us.
“It’s now time to work together to let common sense prevail” Tomuriesa said.
He said he was now looking forward to concentrating on his work has a leader for his people.