Three men accused of a series of burglaries in Avarua appeared in court and were granted bail on various conditions.

The trio accused of the recent break-ins in Avarua appeared before Justice of the Peace Tangi Taoro at the Criminal Court on Thursday.

Nineteen-year-old Melvin Eli is one of the three alleged to have been involved in the recent break-ins reported around Avarua. Eli and Rangi Uai Tuaru, 40, are alleged to have been involved in the Tuki’s Store break-in where a “sizeable amount of cash” was alleged to have been stolen.

The two are also alleged to have broken into three government offices: Crown Law, Justice Minister Vaine “Mac” Mokoroa’s Support Office and the Office of the Prime Minister.

Well-known offender Lucas Kamana, who faces a joint burglary charge, is also allegedly involved in the recent break-ins.

Eli had a bench warrant for arrest cancelled after he arrived late to the Courtroom.

The father of two, who was granted bail last week for 10 burglary charges including joint burglary, had his case transferred to the Chief Justice sitting on October 21, 2024.

Defence counsel Michelle Tangimama advised the Court that she might not be on the island at that time. However, police prosecutor senior sergeant Fairoa Tararo recommended that a plea be entered at the CJ Court Sitting.

The co-accused Tuaru was granted bail on the conditions that he not associate himself with the co-offenders, not to consume or purchase alcohol and not enter liquor licence premises such as bars and nightclubs. He is to reside in Takuvaine and follow curfew from 7pm to 7am unless in the company of the homeowner.

Tuaru faces nine counts of burglary. His case was adjourned to October 10 and he was advised to get a lawyer.

Lucas Kamana was also represented by defence lawyer Tangimama. He was granted bail on the condition that he also not associate with the co-offenders and not to be seen at any area of interest.

Kamana, who already faces three counts of burglary for breaking into and entering three different homes in Tupapa on June 21 with the intent to commit a crime, now faces a new charge of joint burglary.

Lawyer Tangimama said she had received all disclosures for his charges and made an application for bail, stating that Kamana would be residing in Matavera with John Nicholas.

Police prosecutor senior sergeant Tararo made an application that plea be taken on November 28, the next adjournment date.

> Also read: 

> Accused burglar facing 10 charges

> Accused burglar denied bail

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> Government to upgrade security after recent break-ins

> Avarua burglary duo remanded, potential for additional charges