Prosecution probes release of Asian suspect

The National Public Prosecution Authority (NPPA) will investigate circumstances under which an Asian man of Indian origin accused of issuing bouncing cheques, was released from police custody over the weekend. Naval N. Mrdul was released on Saturday morning after spending nine days in detention following a warrant of arrest issued by Nyarugenge First instance court for allegedly issuing three bounced cheques. It’s alleged that Mrdul, issued cheques to his employer, Gasarabwe Petroleum (Rwf 6m), Sky hotel (Rwf 3m) and Salt and Pepper restaurant (Rwf 2,185,000). Speaking to The New Times, Prosecution spokesperson, Augustin Nkusi said that the matter was being followed closely. “We are aware of Mrdul’s alleged offences and release and we are seriously looking into it,” Nkusi said. According to information obtained by The New Times, Mrdul entered Rwanda two years ago from Uganda. Mrdul, whose working permit and visa reportedly expired at the end of last year, is said to have also left Uganda after issuing bounced cheques of Ushs10m and Ushs40m. After entering Rwanda, Mrdul secured employment with Gasarabwe petroleum as a marketing executive with the help of a close friend only identified as Mutin. He is accused by his former employer of selling fuel that was apportioned to him but didn’t report the sales as expected and only gave his boss (Gasarabwe) the said bounced cheque. The accused was accommodated by Sky Hotel and took his meals at Salt and Pepper restaurant. Ends