The Magistrates Court is set to make a decision regarding a bail request from a couple charged with corruption-related offenses. They were remanded in custody after failing to provide acceptable sureties. Resident Magistrate Sufia Hamza did not accept the sureties presented by the couple during their appearance in Suva’s Magistrates Court.
The accused, Ledua Biuvuli Matai, a former employee of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), faces a single charge of abuse of office for personal gain. His wife, Taucilagi Duri, is charged with aiding and abetting this abuse. The charges stem from allegations that between November 2019 and June 2022, Matai did not disclose his personal interest in a business named Ink Escape Supplies while he was working as the RFMF’s Principal Accounts Officer. He purportedly facilitated payments of $467,616.40 from the RFMF to Ink Escape Supplies.
Duri is accused of assisting her husband in committing the alleged offense during the same time period. The case is currently on hold pending a decision regarding the sureties, which are expected to be addressed later today.
As the situation unfolds, it’s essential to recognize that the judiciary is tasked with upholding the law and ensuring accountability. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and integrity in public service.
Summary: A couple, Ledua Biuvuli Matai and Taucilagi Duri, appeared in court facing corruption charges related to Matai’s role in the RFMF. Their bail hearing will continue as their sureties were not accepted. The case underscores the need for accountability in public positions.
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