The High Court in Lautoka has found Roneel Kumar and Gaston Kean guilty of aggravated robbery and theft, stemming from a burglary that occurred on March 27, four years prior. Justice Aruna Aluthge highlighted the compelling evidence provided by the prosecution, notably including CCTV footage captured at the crime scene.
On the day of the incident, the pair unlawfully entered the home of Diana Ali Nand, stealing items such as a laptop, $5,750 in cash, a gold watch, two gold bangles, and a gold chain. The court determined that the evidence effectively demonstrated their intention to permanently deprive the victim of her belongings.
The defense’s arguments were rejected as unconvincing. Justice Aluthge scrutinized Kumar’s alibi and the testimony from his partner, Astika, finding her evidence unreliable due to her apparent motivation to protect Kumar and the inconsistencies in her statements. Further diminishing Kumar’s credibility was his attempt to influence a key witness by transferring money through MPAiSA, which only served to bolster the prosecution’s case.
Kean’s defense was also dismissed, with the court noting that claims of him being born without a right thumb were not substantiated, especially given the clear depiction of an individual resembling him in the CCTV footage.
Ultimately, both Kumar and Kean were convicted on all charges, with Justice Aluthge concluding that the evidence overwhelmingly confirmed their participation in the crime. The court is set to announce their sentences on Friday.
This case serves as a reminder of the crucial role that both technological evidence and the integrity of testimonies play in the judicial process. As the community anticipates the forthcoming sentencing, there is a sense of hope that justice will be duly served, reinforcing safety and security within the neighborhood.
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