Two individuals accused in connection with the seizure of cocaine valued at $1 billion in Vatia, Tavua, have raised serious allegations against police, claiming that more than $7000 was taken from them during the investigation. This matter was brought before the High Court in Ba yesterday as 11 people linked to the case appeared in front of Justice Samuela Qica.
During the proceedings, defense attorneys informed the court that applications for constitutional redress were either filed or in preparation, citing instances of oppressive conduct by law enforcement officials. Allegations included police officers taking cash and personal items from several of the accused individuals.
The group of 11 accused includes both local and foreign nationals facing charges related to the discovery of over 2.6 tonnes of cocaine last month. Lavenia Bogitini, representing Jonathan Hill, accused police officers of wrongfully confiscating $3000 and a power bank from her client during his remand. She revealed that a constitutional redress application was submitted on Monday, calling for an investigation into the alleged misconduct.
Defense claims also highlighted that admissions made during Hill’s caution interview may have been influenced by improper investigative techniques. Unaisi Baleilevuka, representing Merewalesi Qolimaiwasa, corroborated the oppressive allegations, stating that her client was allegedly robbed of $4200 while in police custody on January 17.
Additionally, Edwin Wainiqolo, representing John Taotawa, indicated he too would be submitting a constitutional redress application. Yogend Kumar, representing Munendra, noted he was still waiting for a medical report regarding injuries his client reportedly sustained during arrest.
The case initially started with six men charged over the alleged drug trafficking operation that was intercepted, which includes Australian national Bainivalu Suguturaga and several Ecuadorian fishermen. The remaining five accused were detained in Nadi following a major drug bust on January 17.
In court, State lawyer John Rabuku requested additional time to compile full information and disclosures, suggesting that the accused should wait before filing bail applications. He noted the complexity of the case due to the substantial volume of seized materials, exceeding 2000 packages, indicating that potential immunity options could also be explored.
Justice Qica has adjourned the case until February 27 and has ordered that all accused individuals remain in custody. The unfolding events in this high-stakes case highlight both the scale of the drug operation and the legal challenges that have arisen regarding police conduct during investigations.
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