Justin Ho [left] and Fredrick Epeli

The Prosecution in the case of an airline employee will soon be making an application to consolidate the case with another accused Justin Ho.

The employee is alleged to have been involved in the transportation of illicit substances.

Justin Ho is currently charged with one count of unlawful importation and exportation and one count of unlawful possession, manufacture, cultivation and supply contrary to the Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004.

At the Lautoka High Court today, the Prosecution has asked that Frederick Epeli’s case be transferred to Court 1 where Justin Ho’s case is being called in.

The Prosecution stated that once this is done they will file the necessary documents to merge the case.

Lautoka High Court Judge Justice, Sunil Sharma has granted the matter be transferred to Court 1 which will be called next Tuesday.

Defence lawyer Aca Rayawa did not object to the application.

40-year-old Frederick Epeli is charged with one count of unlawful importation and exportation.

He is also charged with one count of unlawful possession, manufacture, cultivation, and supply contrary to Section 5(b) of the Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004.

It is alleged that Epeli and another accused on December 23rd last year in Nadi, without lawful authority facilitated in exporting of two parcels on the national carrier, weighing to the total of more than two kilos of cocaine and illicit drugs.

Also, it’s alleged on the same day, Epeli and another accused engaged in the dealing for the transfer, transport, supply, use, manufacture, and sale of cocaine and illicit drugs.

Earlier this morning, Epeli’s lawyer Aca Rayawa had also raised concerns as his client was not brought to court with the other remand prisoners.

Rayawa stated that serious actions be taken as this was irresponsible by the relevant authorities.

The Escorting Officer stated in court that a production order was issued, however, Epeli’s name was not on the list for court appearances today.

Justice Sharma then issued a fresh production order for Epeli to be brought to court within an hour’s time.

Fredrick Epeli’s bailing hearing will also be called next Tuesday.