The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has announced that it will withhold further disclosures in the case involving two men accused of defrauding the Nasinu Town Council of over $370,000 until statements from important state witnesses are finalized.

During a recent court hearing at the Suva High Court, prosecution lawyer Nimisha Shankar revealed that the case cannot progress without the testimonial of former Innovation Technology director Razia Bibi, who is a key witness. The defendants, Pauliasi Bainivalu, formerly an IT officer for the Nasinu Town Council, and Shiu Raman, a former employee of Innovation Technology, are facing a series of fraud-related charges. Bainivalu is alleged to have solicited and accepted substantial bribes from various companies between 2014 and 2019, while Raman is charged with conspiracy to defraud and related offenses, including an attempt to bribe Bainivalu.

The court has decided to grant Ms. Shankar’s request to postpone the plea until the witness statements have been collected, and both Bainivalu and Raman remain on bail. The legal proceedings are scheduled to resume on December 12.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability within local governance. It serves as a reminder that thorough investigation and testimony from witnesses are crucial in the pursuit of justice.

In summary, the FICAC is not releasing additional disclosures in a significant fraud case until key witness statements are collected, reflecting the complexities of legal proceedings in corruption cases. The next court date has been set, providing an opportunity for the judiciary to address the issues at hand.