A SERIOUS CHARGE.

Otago Witness, Issue 1989, 7 April 1892, Page 14

A SERIOUS CHARGE.

. Blenheim, March 30. For some time past Mr Sutton, a mining expert, representing a Melbourne syndicate, has been m this district for the purpose of examining the Wakamarina Gorge claim, with the view of developing it with Victorian capital. On his first visit the spur wheel unaccountably smashed as steam was put on to work the pumps. A new wheel was obtained, and pumping resumed on Saturday, but on Sunday evening the shaft broke. Foul play was suspected, and to-day Alexander Waller, who was in charge of the engine at the time of

the last break-down, was arrested, on the information of Mr E. Purser, charged with wilfully damaging the machinery. As theories exist that there are parties hostile to the success of the present company, great interest centres in the case.

April 1. The charges against Alexander Waller, preferred by the Wakamarina Gorge Mining Compnny, for malicious injury to the company's engine, were gone into before the Resident Magistrate yesterday, and the inquiry was adjourned until to-day and concluded. Mr Sinclair prosecuted for the company, and Mr M'Callum defended. After hearing evidence on both sides, the Resident Magistrate held there was no prima facie case, and refused to commit. It is understood that Waller will institute an action claiming heavy damages for false imprisonment and malicious prosecution.