The Magistrates Court has adjourned the case involving the Tannese man who was charged with the murder of his partner and burying her near a coconut plantation at Etmat, Erakor last month.

Yawak Tapawa was taken back into custody after the prosecution told the court they need more time to investigate the case.

The case has been deferred three times. With the recent adjournment, it is now rescheduled to be heard for Preliminary Inquiry on July 31, 2019.

Tapawa is facing one count of intentional homicide, contrary to section 106 of the Penal Code Act [CAP 135].

He was accused of allegedly killing his partner, Mary Rapua, digging a hole to bury her and concealing the grave with leaves and grass.

Rapua’s relatives and the Tannese community in the area became anxious and started looking for her when she did not return home. The grave was discovered five days later.


SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST