A man facing rape charges in Bougainville has escaped trial after prolonged delays at the Buka District Court.
Photo: EMTV
Jeffrey Rumits from Haku had been in custody since February.
Dawn FM reported there had been a committal hearing in March, but subsequent hearings scheduled for April, May, June, July and this week were adjourned.
On these occasions the prosecution was not ready to proceed.
When the investigation officer failed to appear in court this week, the Magistrate, Bruce Tasikul, struck the case out and discharged the defendant.
He said the delay was a breach of the man's constitutional rights.