Papuan trials of a British mercenary
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The former British officer being held in Papua New Guinea after leading in a unit of mercenaries is to stand trial on charges of illegal possession of weapons.
Lieutenant-Colonel Tim Spicer has been released on bail by magistrates at Port Moresby, but he has been ordered not to leave the country until the hearing on 8 April, and his passport has been impounded.
The Bosnia veteran pleaded not guilty to two charges of illegally carrying a Makarov 9mm pistol and 41 rounds of ammunition. Conviction on either or both counts could carry a maximum sentence of six months in jail, and/or a fine of 500 kina, around pounds 290.
Lt-Col Spicer will also be testifying on 1 April at a judicial inquiry into the validity of a $27m (pounds 17m) contract between his security company Sandline and the Papua New Guinea government of Sir Julius Chan, to counter guerrillas on Bougainville Island. The contract led to mutiny in the army and civilian riots.
Lt-Col Spicer, who is the last of the mercenaries left in Papua New Guinea after the others were rounded up and deported by the army, stressed: "There is nothing wrong with the activities of Sandline".
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments