A Suva man accused of forcefully stealing a taxi last November has been denied bail. Rusiate Vakaloloma appeared before Justice Siainiu Fa’alogo Bull charged with one count of aggravated robbery last month. Vakaloloma and a second assailant allegedly robbed taxi driver Pradeep Kumar at knife-point. Vakaloloma pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Justice Bull expressed concern over Vakaloloma’s conviction record, suggesting that he might not surrender to the serious charge. The judge was not confident that imposing strict bail conditions would change the situation. Prosecutors plan to use direct evidence from the complainant, CCTV footage, and Vakaloloma’s admissions during the caution interview.
Justice Bull noted that the case against Vakaloloma is strong, and if convicted, he would likely face a lengthy jail term, which could be a temptation to flee if granted bail. The trial is expected to be set between 12 and 18 months. The case has been adjourned to August 9.