The Suva Magistrates Court was informed today by the prosecution that amended charges would be filed against Chinese national Yin Qing Qing. The State confirmed that they will proceed with a single remaining charge against her, which is for being found in possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime.
During the hearing, Qing Qing’s attorney made an oral application for bail, arguing that the change in charges significantly alters the context of the case. The court acknowledged this submission and will consider the bail application once the State’s amended charges are officially filed. Additionally, the defense requested the return of Qing Qing’s mobile phone, claiming that the investigations surrounding the device have concluded, and there is no longer a reason for it to remain with the police. Both Qing Qing and her co-accused, Joshua Ravula, have maintained their not guilty pleas throughout the proceedings.
The pair initially faced charges following a drug raid conducted in Flagstaff, Suva, in September, during which police seized methamphetamine. Ravula continues to confront the original charges, which include one count of possession of illicit substances and another for possessing property believed to be proceeds of crime.
Magistrate Sufia Hamza has ordered that the existing remand warrant remains effective until December 18. This development highlights the complexities surrounding legal proceedings, particularly in cases with intertwined charges, as both defendants navigate their respective legal challenges.