Police charge refugee with assault

Asha Ali Abdille. Photo / One News

Police are proceeding with charges against Somali refugee Asha Ali Abdille, alleging she assaulted a prison officer by throwing hot coffee in her face.

Blenheim vineyard worker Abdille, 36, appeared in Christchurch District Court today and was further remanded in custody for a judge-alone defended hearing on February 15, the Christchurch Court News website reported.

The case was meant to be heard today but Abdille's lawyer, Margaret Sewell, asked for a delay so that her client could watch a video recording showing the alleged assault at the prison.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Mark Berryman said police would call three witnesses.

Police also withdrew a number of charges that date back more than two years. They include threatening to kill or cause grievous bodily harm, possession of an offensive weapon, resisting and hindering the police, and theft.

- NZPA