The nine officers charged in relation to the death of Vilikesa Soko in police custody last year appeared in the Lautoka Court today.

They are police officers Manasa Talala, Seruvi Caqusau, Kelevi Sewatu, Penaia Drauna, Filise Vere, Viliame Vereivalu, Jona Davonu, Senitiki Natakasavu and Military officer Pita Matairavula

The men are charged with manslaughter, rape and assault.

Davonu failed to appear in court today as he is being held in relation to another case in Suva.

Prosecution lawyers today informed the court they will be dropping the manslaughter charge.

Talala and Vereivalu are also being charged with attempting to defeat the course of justice by instructing other police officers to make false statements.

The case has been adjourned to the 5th of November for a four day hearing of a voir-dire application by their lawyer Iqbal Khan.

Their bail has been extended till then.

Meanwhile, Matairavula, is also wanted in Suva for the alleged brutal assault of escapee Iowane Benedito in November 2012.