The Lautoka High Court is set to announce its decision tomorrow regarding the government’s request to destroy 4.1 tonnes of methamphetamine that were confiscated in Nadi last December.
During proceedings yesterday, several defendants, including Justin Ho, David Heritage, Louie Logaivau, Jale Aukerea, Sakiusa Tuva, Keanie Mcpherson, Ratu Aporosa Davelevu, Ratu Osea Levula, Cathy Tuirabe, and Viliame Colawaliku, appeared before Justice Aruna Aluthge. The Court is awaiting the submission of a destruction plan from the State to proceed with its ruling.
Additionally, the Court has instructed both the prosecution and the defense to resolve pre-trial matters by January 31, 2025. A Voir dire hearing, along with trial dates, has been scheduled from April 21 to May 23, 2025.
Bail has been extended to all accused individuals except for Tuirabe and Colawaliku, who are currently evading arrest under a bench warrant. The police are actively searching for them. Furthermore, a curfew from 6 pm to 6 am has been imposed on Ho, Logaivau, and Aukerea as an additional bail condition.
The accused face serious charges, including the unlawful importation and possession of illicit drugs, as well as holding property believed to be proceeds of criminal activity.
This case is an important development in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking in the region. It indicates the legal system’s commitment to addressing drug-related crimes while ensuring that defendants’ rights are respected as the trial process unfolds. The upcoming ruling marks a significant step in the judicial process and highlights the importance of a structured approach to battling drug-related issues.
Overall, this situation underscores a proactive legal framework working to maintain public safety while managing the complexities of drug enforcement and justice.
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