A 53-year-old farmer named Kishore Lal has received a 13-month suspended sentence from the Ba Magistrates’ Court after admitting to setting fire to sugarcane crops in Navau, Ba. Charged with one count of arson and two counts of attempted arson under the Crimes Act 2009, Lal’s actions occurred on July 9, 2024, when he intentionally ignited a sugarcane farm owned by Ajay Kumar, resulting in the destruction of approximately 200 tonnes of cane valued at $21,500.
The fire rapidly spread to adjacent farms, devastating crops belonging to Sushila Devi and Kailash Pati, causing losses of $17,000 and $5,950, respectively. Witnesses from the police observed Lal at the scene, and upon questioning, he confessed to the offences. During the ruling on October 27, Magistrate Namarata Mishra noted the severe nature of the crime, particularly due to its significant impact on farmers’ livelihoods. However, she took into consideration Lal’s early guilty plea, remorse, and his clean criminal record.
Initially sentenced to 15 months in prison, Lal’s punishment was mitigated due to these factors and time already served, ultimately resulting in a suspended sentence for three years. Should he reoffend during this period, the suspension will be revoked, and he will serve his sentence.
This case emerges amidst growing concerns regarding the threat of arson in the sugar industry. Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh has been vocal about the urgent need for stringent penalties against individuals who participate in such destruction. Singh recently highlighted the alarming rise in arson incidents, which have devastated approximately 170 acres of sugarcane, notably affecting farmers just before the sugar mill operations commence.
In the wake of these challenges, the government has initiated a rehabilitation package to support affected farmers, underscoring the importance of community cooperation and vigilance in combating these crimes. The ongoing situation highlights the resilience of the agricultural sector and the potential for recovery, emphasizing collaborative efforts to ensure the sustainability of Fiji’s vital sugarcane industry.
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