The High Court in Suva has ruled that squatters must vacate a piece of land in Tacirua East owned by Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd. The company’s director, Anthony Eugene Ah Koy, presented an affidavit to the court asserting that the squatters have no legal right to occupy the property located on Khalsa Rd.
In the court proceedings, Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd stated that assisting the squatters was unfeasible due to a lack of identifiable information regarding them, such as names, addresses, and professions. While the squatters acknowledged the ownership of Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd since 2017, they argued that their occupation of the land began prior to the land’s lease approval and was permitted by local landowning representatives. They further claimed ignorance of the land transfer to Ridgeview Estate.
Justice Savenaca Banuve ruled in favor of Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd, instructing the squatters to leave the premises. The court order included directives for the Sheriff of the Court and their officers to manage the removal process, and they were authorized to seek police assistance if necessary. The squatters, along with their belongings and any unauthorized utility connections, are to be removed from the property.
This situation highlights the complex issues surrounding land ownership and informal settlements in Fiji. It underscores the challenges that arise when formal property rights intersect with the needs of vulnerable populations. While the ruling emphasizes the importance of legal property rights, it is hopeful that discussions around supportive solutions for those affected by such decisions will continue to foster community engagement and understanding.
Summary: A High Court in Suva has ordered squatters to vacate land owned by Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd. Despite some squatters’ claims of prior occupation and permission from local representatives, the court upheld the company’s ownership. The ruling points to broader issues related to land rights and informal settlements in Fiji.
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