The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has decided not to release further disclosures in the case concerning two men accused of defrauding the Nasinu Town Council of more than $370,000 until the statements of state witnesses are fully completed. This announcement was made by prosecution lawyer Nimisha Shankar during a recent court hearing held before Suva High Court Judge Justice Usaia Ratuvili.
The defendants, former Nasinu Town Council IT officer Pauliasi Bainivalu and former Innovation Technology employee Shiu Raman, face a series of charges related to the alleged fraud. Bainivalu is accused of soliciting bribes totaling $116,177 and accepting about $57,427.40 from various companies between 2014 and 2019. Raman’s charges include conspiracy to defraud, obtaining a gain through bribery, general dishonesty, and the destruction of evidence. He is also accused of attempting to offer Bainivalu a bribe of $2,066 to facilitate these offences.
During the proceedings, Ms. Shankar emphasized that the state cannot move forward with additional disclosures until the statement from a key witness, former Innovation Technology director Razia Bibi, is recorded. The court has agreed to postpone further pleas, extending bail for both accused, and has scheduled the next session for December 12.
This ongoing case highlights the dedication of FICAC in ensuring all procedures are correctly followed, reinforcing the importance of thorough investigations in maintaining integrity within public offices. The forthcoming court date presents an opportunity for clarity and resolution while emphasizing the commitment to combating corruption in Fiji.
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