The High Court of Suva has issued an order for squatters to vacate a parcel of land located in Tacirua East, which is owned by Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd. The company’s director, Anthony Eugene Ah Koy, submitted an affidavit stating that the squatters have no legal right to occupy the property.
In court, Ridgeview Estate expressed that they were unable to assist the squatters due to a lack of information regarding their identities and circumstances. Despite acknowledging the company’s ownership since 2017, some squatters argued that their occupation of the land predated the issuance of leases and was with the consent of local landowning representatives. However, this claim did not sway Justice Savenaca Banuve, who ruled in favor of Ridgeview Estate, mandating the removal of the squatters.
Justice Banuve ordered that the Sheriff of the Court, along with police assistance, ensure the confiscation of any personal belongings, infrastructure, and utilities associated with the illegal squatters. The decision underlines the necessity of upholding property rights, although it simultaneously raises questions about the circumstances faced by those displaced.
This ruling highlights a critical aspect of land rights and formal ownership in Fiji, a topic that often intersects with issues of housing and social welfare. It emphasizes the need for more comprehensive solutions that consider both property owners’ rights and the dire needs of individuals who find themselves in precarious housing situations. While the situation appears challenging, it presents an opportunity for stakeholders to work collaboratively to address housing shortages and improve living conditions for vulnerable populations.
Overall, this case illustrates the importance of legal frameworks in resolving land disputes while also highlighting the urgency of addressing the underlying issues of informal settlements in Fiji.
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