Veronica Malani’s attorney, Sitiveni Raikanikoda, has been granted 14 days to submit an affidavit in response to a strike-out application filed by former DPP lawyer Neelraj Sharma, who is the seventh respondent.
This civil case was heard by Justice Usaia Ratuvili at the High Court in Suva, focusing on a compensation claim amounting to $800,244 million involving 11 individuals linked to the investigation of the alleged bombing case from 1987 in 2020.
The defendants in this case include both former and current members of the Fiji Police Force as well as the Director of Public Prosecutions. During the hearing, Sharma’s lawyer, Ronald Singh, argued that the application was made to remove his client from the proceedings, noting that Sharma is currently employed at Munroe Leys Lawyers after his tenure with the DPP.
Justice Ratuvili instructed Raikanikoda to address the application and confirm whether he possesses relevant evidence regarding Sharma’s involvement. Raikanikoda also raised concerns about the absence of legal representation for two defendants, former Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu and retired Assistant Police Commissioner Biu Matavou, both of whom are retired civil servants.
Justice Ratuvili responded that the Office of the Attorney-General must provide clarification on this matter in the next court session. The case is set to reconvene on October 9 for further mentions.