Veronica Malani’s attorney, Sitiveni Raikanikoda, has been given a 14-day deadline to submit an affidavit in response to a strike out application filed by Neelraj Sharma, a former lawyer for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). This civil case was heard by Justice Usaia Ratuvili at the High Court in Suva and involves a compensation claim totaling $800,244 million from 11 individuals connected to the investigation of an alleged bombing case from 1987.
The defendants in the case include both former and current members of the Fiji Police Force, as well as the Director of Public Prosecutions. During the proceedings, Ronald Singh, representing Mr. Sharma, indicated that a strike out application was submitted to have his client removed from the case, noting that Mr. Sharma is now with Munroe Leys Lawyers.
Justice Ratuvili requested that Mr. Raikanikoda respond to the application, particularly regarding any evidence of his client’s involvement. Additionally, Mr. Raikanikoda raised concerns about the absence of representation for two defendants, retired civil servants Rusiate Tudravu, a former Acting Police Commissioner, and Biu Matavou, a retired Assistant Police Commissioner for Crime. Justice Ratuvili stated that the Office of the Attorney-General would need to provide clarification on this issue in the next hearing.
The case has been adjourned until October 9 for further mention.