14 criminal appeals before Supreme Court in historic Vanimo Sitting

The Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea is currently hearing 14 criminal appeals in Vanimo this week.

This marks the first time in 50 years that the Supreme Court circuit has sat in Vanimo, bringing the country’s highest court closer to the people of West Sepik.

Speaking to NBC News, Public Solicitor of Papua New Guinea, Leslie Mamu confirmed that all 14 cases are now before the Supreme Court judges, with final judgments expected by Friday.

Mr. Mamu said the matters before the court are appeals, where appellants are challenging decisions of the National Court on both conviction and sentencing.

“The judges will deliberate after all hearings are completed and deliver their decisions. Appellants should have the court’s decision by the end of this week,” Mr. Mamu said.

Hearings commenced on Monday and continued through Wednesday.

Of the 14 cases listed, 13 relate to murder and manslaughter. The remaining case involves Child Sexual Penetration.

One of the appellants, Child Sexual Penetration convict Darren Babia, is challenging both his conviction and 20-year prison sentence handed down by the National Court.

Mr. Babia has filed a formal appeal against the National Court’s decision.

Justice Colin Makail earlier told the court that out of 1,196 Supreme Court cases nationwide, only 15 originated from West Sepik, a figure he said reflects a largely law-abiding population in the province.

The Supreme Court is expected to deliver all judgments on Friday.