Tevita Kapawale, who is facing multiple charges including five counts of murder, has been denied bail by the Suva High Court. The ruling was made by Justice Dane Tuiqereqere during a hearing this morning.
Kapawale is accused of killing three Indonesians and two Fijians aboard the FV Tiro 2 on May 18, 2021, following a confrontation among crew members. This marks Kapawale’s second attempt to secure bail. In his application, he argued that being released would enable him to work and provide for his family.
However, Justice Tuiqereqere rejected the bail request, citing Kapawale’s previous failures to appear in court on two occasions. Although he eventually surrendered to authorities after a bench warrant was issued, the judge noted that this did not excuse his prior non-attendance.
The trial for this case has been set for January. Justice Tuiqereqere expressed concerns regarding the possibility that Kapawale might not return for the trial if granted bail. He acknowledged the presumption of innocence but underscored the gravity of the charges and the substantial evidence against Kapawale. The judge further indicated that a conviction for murder could lead to a life sentence.