Tevita Kapawale, who is accused of multiple murders, was denied bail by the Suva High Court. During a court appearance this morning before Judge Dane Tuiqereqere, Kapawale faced five murder charges, one count of attempted murder, and one count of intimidation.
The allegations against Kapawale involve the murders of three Indonesians and two Fijians on board the FV Tiro 2, which occurred on May 18, 2021, in Fiji waters following a dispute among the crew members.
This was Kapawale’s second request for bail, where he argued the need to support his family financially. However, Justice Tuiqereqere denied the request, citing Kapawale’s previous failures to appear in court on two occasions. Although he did ultimately surrender after a bench warrant was issued, the judge emphasized that this did not excuse his earlier absences.
The trial for Kapawale is set to take place in January. Justice Tuiqereqere expressed concern that granting bail could result in Kapawale not returning for the trial. While acknowledging the presumption of innocence, he noted the seriousness of the charges and the substantial evidence against Kapawale. If convicted of murder, Kapawale faces a potential life sentence.