Justice Thushara Rajasinghe in Suva has postponed the judgment for three suspended police officers facing manslaughter charges. Maciu Vakaturaga, Isireli Raseisei, and Joshua Bull were expected to receive a verdict, but the judge stated that additional weeks are necessary before making a decision.
The officers are accused of being involved in the death of Mikaele Tikoivalenibula in February 2022, with allegations suggesting they assaulted him at different times while he was detained in a cell at the Samabula Police Station. The charges were brought forth by the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Both Vakaturaga and Bull are being represented by Shirley Tivao, while Joji Cakau is representing Raseisei. The bail for the three men has been extended.