Alleged mass murderer Tevita Kapawale has been denied bail by the Suva High Court. He appeared this morning before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere, facing five counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and one count of intimidation.
Kapawale is accused of the murders of three Indonesians and two Fijians aboard the FV Tiro 2 on May 18, 2021, during a confrontation among crew members in Fiji waters. This was Kapawale’s second request for bail, during which he argued that he needed to be released to work and support his family financially.
Justice Tuiqereqere cited Kapawale’s previous failures to attend court on two occasions as a reason for denying bail. Although he eventually surrendered to authorities after a bench warrant was issued, the judge noted that this did not excuse his prior absences.
The trial is set to take place in January, and Justice Tuiqereqere expressed concerns that Kapawale may not return if granted bail. He acknowledged the presumption of innocence but emphasized the serious nature of the charges and the compelling evidence against Kapawale. The judge warned that if found guilty of murder, Kapawale could face a life sentence.