Tevita Kapawale, who is accused of multiple murders, has requested bail during a court session with Justice Dane Tuiqereqere this morning. Kapawale faces five murder charges, one attempted murder charge, and one charge of intimidation.
The allegations against him include the murder of five crew members from the FV Tiro 2 on May 18, 2021, during an altercation at sea in Fiji waters. The crew members named are Benjamin Mattaputty, Eme Warma, Alfat Kodri, Samuela Sukera, and Qiritavabea Cagilabakomeli. He is also accused of attempting to murder Kaminieli Vucago and intimidating Mitieli Cama.
In court, Kapawale stated that he is the primary provider for his family and needs to support his wife, children, and parents. However, state attorney Triveshni Sharma opposed the bail request, emphasizing the serious nature of the charges. She argued that Kapawale is not the only breadwinner, as his father is still employed.
Kapawale countered that his father, aged over 60, requires assistance. Sharma pointed out that granting bail could create a troubling precedent for others facing similar serious accusations. She further noted that Kapawale had previously been out on bail but had failed to appear in court on two occasions, raising concerns over his reliability in attending future hearings.
Sharma stressed that this case is of significant public interest and carries a potential life sentence. Justice Tuiqereqere is expected to deliver a decision regarding the bail application on the 15th of this month.