Court Orders Squatters to Clear Out as Ownership Dispute Heats Up in Fiji

The High Court in Suva has issued an order for the removal of squatters from a parcel of land in Tacirua East, owned by Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd. The company’s director, Anthony Eugene Ah Koy, submitted an affidavit to the court claiming that those occupying the properties on Khalsa Rd have no legal right to do so.

Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd informed the court that they were unable to assist the squatters due to a lack of information regarding their identities, residential details, and occupations. This information gap complicated the situation further. While some squatters acknowledged the company’s ownership of the land since 2017, they contended that their occupation began before the company acquired the leases, suggesting they had tacit approval from representatives of the landowning mataqali.

Justice Savenaca Banuve ruled in favor of Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd, mandating the eviction of the squatters. The order stipulates that the Sheriff of the Court and his officers are to clear the premises and ensure that all individuals, along with their properties—including homes, crops, and any illegally connected utilities—are removed. Furthermore, the Sheriff is required to enlist police support to facilitate a safe disconnection and removal of any unauthorized electricity and water connections related to the squatter housing.

This situation reflects the broader issue of land rights and informal settlements in Fiji, where the complexities of land ownership and residents’ rights often collide. While the court’s ruling emphasizes the importance of legal property rights, it also underscores the need for addressing the social and economic challenges faced by those living in informal settlements.

In the face of such judicial decisions, communities may benefit from increased efforts to engage in dialogue and explore viable solutions that foster cooperation between landowners and residents. This could lead to more sustainable outcomes that respect both legal ownership and the needs of vulnerable populations, paving the way for potential development initiatives in the region.