The High Court in Lautoka has found Roneel Kumar and Gaston Kean guilty of aggravated robbery and theft stemming from a house burglary that took place four years ago on March 27. Justice Aruna Aluthge presided over the case and ruled in favor of the prosecution, which presented compelling evidence, including crucial CCTV footage from the crime scene.
The two men unlawfully broke into the home of Diana Ali Nand, where they made off with a laptop, $5,750 in cash, a gold watch, two gold bangles, and a gold chain. The prosecution successfully demonstrated that Kumar and Kean intended to permanently deprive the victim of her belongings.
The defense’s arguments were rejected by the court as unpersuasive. Justice Aluthge specifically pointed out that Kumar’s alibi was unconvincing, and the testimony of his partner, Astika, lacked credibility due to her inconsistent statements and apparent conflict of interest in shielding him. Furthermore, Kumar’s attempts to tamper with a key witness by sending money raised further doubts about his integrity.
Kean’s defense was similarly dismissed. Despite his claims of being born without a right thumb, the court found that the CCTV footage clearly showed someone matching his description at the scene of the crime.
Both Kumar and Kean have been convicted on all charges, with Justice Aluthge confirming that the evidence overwhelmingly implicated them in the burglary. Their sentencing is scheduled to be announced on Friday.
This conviction serves as a reminder of the judicial system’s commitment to justice and the importance of upholding the rule of law in the community. It highlights the significant role that credible evidence plays in prosecuting crime and ensuring that offenders are held accountable for their actions.
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