Tevita Kapawale, who is accused of multiple murders, has been denied bail by the Suva High Court. During a court appearance before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere, Kapawale faced five counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and one count of intimidation.
Kapawale is alleged to have murdered three Indonesian nationals and two Fijians aboard the FV Tiro 2 on May 18, 2021, following a dispute among the crew members. This marks Kapawale’s second request for bail, during which he claimed the need to support his family financially while on bail.
Justice Tuiqereqere rejected the bail application, citing Kapawale’s previous failures to attend court on two separate occasions. Although he surrendered after a bench warrant was issued, the judge stressed that this does not excuse his absence.
The trial for Kapawale has been set for January. Justice Tuiqereqere expressed concerns about the risk of Kapawale not returning for the trial if granted bail. He acknowledged the presumption of innocence but highlighted the severity of the charges and the substantial evidence against Kapawale. The judge noted that if convicted of murder, Kapawale faces a life sentence.