A former officer from the Fiji Police Force’s Counter Narcotics Bureau, Isireli Waqairalai Daulevu, has been granted a $1,000 non-cash bail but with stringent conditions to prevent him from interfering with witnesses as he faces criminal charges. Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne imposed these conditions, emphasizing that Daulevu should not contact either the victim or any witnesses involved in the case.
The bail was contested by the State, which highlighted the former officer’s authority and the potential risk of influencing witnesses, particularly other police personnel. However, Magistrate Somaratne ruled that it was implausible Daulevu could sway those of equal or higher rank, particularly given his current interdiction from the police force, which limits his ability to exercise influence.
To further mitigate concerns, the court suggested that the prosecution could instruct the investigating officer to monitor compliance with the bail conditions and report any incidents of interference. Additional requirements set alongside the bail included financial sureties from relatives, each bonded for $1,000, and restricts Daulevu from any contact with the involved parties.
This decision follows a trend where other officers have found themselves in similar legal predicaments, illustrating ongoing integrity issues within law enforcement in Fiji. In related incidents, other officers have been denied bail for serious drug and sexual offenses, indicating a strict judicial approach to cases involving law enforcement personnel. The community remains hopeful that the system’s response will reinforce public safety and the commitment to justice, fostering trust in law enforcement moving forward.
As the legal process unfolds, Daulevu has 28 days to appeal the ruling.
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