Former Fisheries and Forestry Minister Kalaveti Ravu has requested a modification of his bail conditions to enable him to travel to China. Ravu appeared in Suva Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou. He faces a single charge of abuse of office, alleged to have interfered in a Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry investigation concerning the illegal trade of banned beche-de-mer species between July 25 and August 31 last year.
His attorney, Lavi Rokoika, informed the court that Ravu is scheduled to attend a seminar in China from October 22 to 31. Prosecutor Lavenia Ravuikadavu from FICAC requested a formal application from the defense, but Magistrate Savou determined that a formal letter from Parliament, which included the necessary affidavit and evidence, was adequate. FICAC has been given 14 days to respond to the defense’s request. The magistrate also instructed that a copy of Ravu’s passport biodata page be provided by the end of business yesterday.
In a related matter, accused Tekata Toaisi, who is charged with aiding and abetting Ravu in the abuse of office allegation, was absent from the court session due to a date mix-up and being on Rabi Island. Consequently, the court has suspended his bench warrant. A trial date has been set for February 3 to 7 next year, with Ravuikadavu stating the prosecution is prepared to proceed, having secured 12 witnesses and 39 documents for the case. The proceedings were adjourned until October 3 to review the State’s response regarding Ravu’s bail modification and to hold a pretrial conference.