The High Court in Suva has ruled that squatters residing on property in Tacirua East, owned by Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd, must vacate the premises. The company’s director, Anthony Eugene Ah Koy, presented an affidavit asserting that the individuals occupying the land on Khalsa Rd have no legal claim to remain there.
During the court proceedings, it was noted that the company could not provide personal assistance to the squatters due to their lack of identification and unknown occupations. While some squatters acknowledged that Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd has owned the land since 2017, they contended that they occupied the area prior to the land grants and claimed they were not informed of the land’s transfer to the company.
Justice Savenaca Banuve ruled in favor of Ridgeview Estate Pte Ltd, ordering the squatters to leave. The order includes instructions for the Sheriff of the Court to facilitate the removal of the squatters and any illegally connected utilities. The Sheriff was also directed to seek police assistance to ensure the safe disconnection and removal of any unauthorized electricity and water connections associated with the unpermitted dwellings.
This decision highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding informal settlements and land rights in Fiji, paving the way for future discussions on equitable housing solutions. It emphasizes the need for better communication between landowners and communities to prevent such disputes in the future.
In the broader context, this ruling can serve as a catalyst for dialogue on finding sustainable housing solutions that accommodate the needs of disadvantaged communities while respecting property rights.
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