Liquor store murder trial begins

Navtej Singh was killed during an armed robbery at his Manurewa liquor store in June 2008. Photo / Supplied

The trial of seven people in connection with the murder of South Auckland liquor store owner Navtej Singh in June 2008 began today in Auckland and is expected to last six weeks.

A jury of eight women and four men were sworn in at the High Court at Auckland.

Tino Faamele Felise, 19, Eti Filoa, 25, and Walter McCarthy, 19, face one charge of murder and one of aggravated robbery.

Anitilea Chan-Kee, 22, Myron Robert Felise, 22, and Jason Naseri, 21, face one charge of murder after previously admitting charges of aggravated robbery.

A seventh man Mefiposeta Chan Kee, 26, is charged with being an accessory after the killing.

Mr Singh, 30, was shot while working in his Riverton liquor store in Manurewa East as he was handing over money to robbers. He died the next day.

Opening addresses from the crown prosecutors and defence lawyers are expected later today.

A total of 54 witnesses are expected to be called during the trial before Justice Graham Lang.

- NZPA