The Suva Magistrate’s Court has dismissed the charges against Jone Vakarisi due to the Police Prosecution’s inability to present complete evidence during the trial. Vakarisi was accused of criminal intimidation for allegedly threatening Alanieta Kuini by saying, “I will kill you,” with the intent to cause alarm. This incident took place on May 2, 2022, in Nabua, Suva.
In court, Prosecutor Ledua announced they were unprepared for trial as the main witness was absent, and only police officers were present. Magistrate Prasad expressed disappointment, indicating that the prosecution was leaving him with no alternative.
He reminded the prosecution of Section 14 (g) of the 2013 Constitution, which guarantees a defendant’s right to a trial that commences and concludes without unnecessary delays. Due to the absence of the key witness, the magistrate ruled that there was no case to answer. When questioned, Vakarisi revealed he was nearing the end of a one year and three months prison sentence. He was previously one of eight individuals convicted in connection with an assault case in Nabua in 2018. Consequently, Magistrate Prasad acquitted Vakarisi under Section 170 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2009.