BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case involving an individual charged with obstructing police officers while they were executing their duties was heard in the Magistrate Court yesterday.

During the hearing, the court adjourned the matter to July 9 to allow the defence counsel time to obtain instructions from the defendant and prepare him for arraignment.

Mark Tanagu, 41, is charged with one count of obstructing police officer on duty, contrary to section 247 (b) of the Penal Code Cap 26. 

Police alleged that on May 12, 2025, the Central Police Response Unit was conducting operational duties in around and around Honiara city when a parliament meeting was taking place.

The officers were patrolling the Hapai area, Point Cruz and encountered a group of intoxicated men sitting with opened cans of beer.

The officers allegedly poured out the alcohol, warned the group and dispersed them from the area.

The defendant who was among the group was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time. He observed the officers performing their duties and approached one of them, uttering obstructive and inappropriate comments.

The officer explained to the defendant that the area was a public space and that consuming alcohol in public was not permitted under the law.

However, the defendant was not satisfied with the explanations and continued with his negative comments towards the officers as they carried out their lawful duties.

As a result, the duty officer apprehended the defendant and escorted him to the Central PoliceStation watch house for further processing.

On May 13, 2025 the defendant was interviewed by police, he admitted to the offence and was charged.

Abel Maelanga for the prosecution and Vincent Nomae for the defendant.

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