A Suva man accused of forcefully stealing a taxi in November last year has been denied bail. Rusiate Vakaloloma appeared before Justice Siainiu Fa’alogo Bull last month, facing one count of aggravated robbery.
Vakaloloma, along with a second assailant, allegedly robbed the taxi driver, Pradeep Kumar, at knife-point. Vakaloloma pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Justice Bull expressed concerns over Vakaloloma’s conviction record, indicating it made him unlikely to abide by court orders given the serious nature of the charge. The judge stated she was not confident that stringent bail conditions would sufficiently address the situation.
Prosecutors informed the Court of their reliance on the direct evidence of the complainant, CCTV footage, and Vakaloloma’s admissions during a caution interview. Justice Bull ruled that the case against Vakaloloma was strong, and if convicted, he would likely face a lengthy jail term, providing a significant temptation to skip court if granted bail.
The matter is expected to be set for trial within 12 to 18 months. The case has been adjourned to August 9.