A Fiji Navy analyst has testified in the ongoing murder trial involving Tevita Qaqa Kapawale, emphasizing the grim prospects for the five missing crew members of the fishing vessel FV Tiro II. Chief Petty Officer Waisake Tikoduadua, serving as the prosecution’s third witness, stated that it is highly unlikely the men could have survived their ordeal at sea four years after the incident.
Tikoduadua described how he received a request for assistance from the FV Samyeung, which was searching for five crew members reportedly floating in the ocean, alongside Kapawale, who was discovered on a life raft. The five missing individuals — Benjamin Semuel Mattaputty, Eme Warma, Alfat Kodri, Samuela Sukera, and Qiritavabea Cagilabakomeli — are believed to have been murdered by Kapawale on May 17, 2021.
A vessel monitoring report indicated that the FV Tiro II drifted for extended periods, raising questions about its movements. Tikoduadua detailed that the Fijian navy, with the help of a New Zealand aircraft, conducted a search operation, eventually locating Kapawale on May 21, 2021. Two survivors, Mitieli Cama and Kaminieli Tucama, were rescued and subsequently handed over to the police.
The analyst, drawing on 24 years of experience, underscored the impossibility of survival for the missing crew members without life jackets and rejected a defense theory suggesting that they may have been abducted by an unmarked vessel.
As the trial progresses, the next witness slated to testify is Commanding Officer Luke Madanavosa of the RFNS Kikau. This development allows for a continued exploration of the tragic events surrounding the disappearance of the crew members and the serious allegations against Kapawale.
In summary, the trial is focusing on significant evidence regarding the circumstances of the missing crew members, emphasizing the difficulties they faced and the accusations against Kapawale. This case reflects ongoing efforts to uncover the truth behind maritime incidents and ensure accountability in such grave matters, offering a cautious hope for clarity and justice for the victims and their families.
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