An 18-year-old man, Rihaal Kumar, who is facing murder charges in connection with the death of 20-year-old Sharuf Shaakir Khan, was notably absent from a High Court hearing in Suva on Friday. The circumstances surrounding Kumar’s absence remain unclear, with both the defense and prosecution unable to ascertain his whereabouts.
Kumar is accused of committing the murder at an apartment complex on Waimanu Road on July 7, 2025. During the hearing, Justice Daniel Goundar presided over the case but noted that Kumar could not be produced for the proceedings. His lawyer, Mark Anthony, indicated that a crucial psychiatric evaluation from St Giles Hospital is pending, primarily due to medical staff’s inability to access him for the assessment.
Anthony further relayed a letter from St Giles confirming the obstacle in preparing the report. The defense was last able to meet with Kumar on a prior court date. Additionally, it was brought to the court’s attention that Kumar’s parents had visited the remand facility on January 15, but were told to return on January 20, as his current location remains indeterminate.
This ongoing situation underscores the complexities faced within the legal process, especially concerning inmate access to necessary medical evaluations, which can significantly impact the progression of a case.
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