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SUVA - A New Zealand man badly beaten by Fiji authorities during his arrest over a plot to kill Fiji's coup leader may be able to leave hospital today, his lawyer has said.
New Zealand millionaire Ballu Khan has been under guard in a Suva hospital since he was beaten by Fiji police and soldiers during his arrest on November 3.
He is yet to be charged with any crime.
His lawyer Tevita Fa previously said Khan had extensive injuries including a broken jaw and ribs after sustaining multiple beatings at the hands of Fiji authorities.
A doctor examined Khan yesterday, and Fa today said he hoped the report into the injuries would be made public soon.
After visiting Khan today, Fa said his client appeared to be improving.
"He may be released either today or tomorrow," Fa said.
Khan is among 17 people arrested over an alleged plot to kill Fiji's self-appointed prime minister Frank Bainimarama, his Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and two senior military officers.
Bainimarama seized power in a bloodless military coup last year.
Fa has proceedings pending in the Suva High Court, arguing Khan should be allowed to leave Fiji because it is unlawful to detain him without charge more than 48 hours.
If Khan was prevented from leaving Fiji, he should be kept in home detention, the lawyer said.
- AAP
