Former Fisheries and Forestry Minister Kalaveti Ravu has requested to modify his bail conditions to allow travel to China. Ravu appeared before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou in the Suva Magistrate’s Court where he faces a charge of abuse of office. He has been accused of obstructing an investigation by the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry into the illegal trade of prohibited beche-de-mer species during a period from July 25 to August 31 last year.
Ravu’s attorney, Lavi Rokoika, stated that her client needs to be in China for a seminar scheduled between October 22 and 31. FICAC prosecutor Lavenia Ravuikadavu requested a formal application from Rokoika, but Magistrate Savou ruled that the formal letter from Parliament, which included the required affidavit and evidence, was adequate. FICAC has been granted 14 days to respond to the bail variation request.
Additionally, Tekata Toaisi, who is charged alongside Ravu for aiding and abetting the alleged abuse of office, missed the court hearing due to a date mix-up and being on Rabi Island. Consequently, the court suspended his bench warrant. The trial is scheduled for February 3 to 7 next year, and the prosecution indicated readiness, with plans to present 12 witnesses and 39 documents. The case has been adjourned until October 3 to review the response from the State regarding Ravu’s bail modification and to discuss the pretrial conference.