Steven Numbos, the Mobile Squad Commander, who was charged for wilful murder has been released on a K1000 National Court Bail.
Numbos applied for bail on three grounds. They are; his safety inside the Bomana prison; medical conditions; and his family’s welfare.
The application was heard at the Waigani National Court this morning.
Deputy Chief Justice, Sir Gibbs Salika granted the bail using the court’s discretion.
Numbos’ bail conditions are; he remains in the National Capital District and Central province, until his case completes committal proceedings; he must not to consume any alcoholic drinks; and he must report to the Court Registry every first Monday of every month.
Not much details of the alleged offence were revealed in court this morning. But police alleged that Numbos killed a betel nut vendor in July, 2016.
He was arrested, and charged for Wilful Murder under section 299 of the Criminal Code Act, on 31st December, 2016.
That is six months after the alleged offence had occurred.
Numbos has been remanded at the Bomana Prison, outside Port Moresby since his arrest.
This morning, he submitted in court that on 14th January 2017, a group of inmates approached him in his cell block, and threatened him.
Numbos told the court through his lawyer, that because he was involved in the apprehension and arrests of a number of inmates, who are currently serving their jail terms at Bomana, his life is at risk.
The state’s lawyer objected to the submissions but did not assist the court on why it took six months for police to arrest Numbos, despite using the affidavit of the arresting officer.
This bail was granted for the charge of wilful murder. Numbos is also facing a charge of Being in Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm and Ammunition.
That case is set for trial at the Boroko District Court on February 8.
