The fate of a 36-year-old man, accused of importing 4.7 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine, hangs in the balance as the state deliberates whether to make him a witness in ongoing legal proceedings. This clarification was provided by Senior State Lawyer Unal Lal, following an indication by defense attorney Mesake Waqavanua that he and his client had been approached regarding the possibility of the accused becoming a state witness.
Mr. Lal confirmed that a decision has yet to be reached but assured both Mr. Waqavanua and the court that he would provide updates once a resolution has been determined. However, Magistrate Charles Ratakele deemed Mr. Waqavanua’s submission premature and has temporarily set it aside.
Meanwhile, co-defendants Mr. Matadigo and Officer Lubi do not oppose Mr. Lal’s motion to transfer their case to the Chief Magistrate for consolidation. Conversely, Officer Ratu Lote Lewaivanua is firmly against the transfer, arguing it fails to meet necessary legal criteria. Mr. Lewaivanua faces allegations as well, having reportedly been found in possession of $650, believed to be proceeds from criminal activities.
Mr. Matadigo’s charges, along with those involving the two officers, are currently under the jurisdiction of Magistrate Ratakele. Mr. Lal argues that these cases, which allegedly occurred in September of this year, are interconnected and should be addressed together.
The case also involves another civilian, Eroni Kitanamati, aged 37, who faces similar charges related to the importation of the same volume of drugs. Magistrate Ratakele is expected to deliver his ruling on the motion for case transfer today, which could significantly impact the progression of these related cases and the state’s strategy moving forward.
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