Prosecution Drops Charges in NZ National’s Murder Case
Rusiate Raiwalui, the man who was alleged to have killed New Zealand national, Ashkan Farsani Rikthegazader, is a free man.
This is after the Director of Public Prosecutions has filed a nolle prosequi (a formal notice to discontinue or dismiss legal proceedings) in the matter.
Raiwalui appeared before Judge Justice Daniel Goundar at the High Court in Suva yesterday.
He was facing one count each of murder and of unlawful possession of illicit drug.
For the offence of murder, it was alleged that on May 8, 2019, at Qeleya Road in Lami, Suva, Raiwalui murdered New Zealand national Ashkan Farsani Rikthegazader.
For the offence of unlawful possession of illicit drugs, it was alleged that on May 8, 2019, at Suva, Raiwalui without lawful authority, had in his possession 101.3 grams of illicit drugs, namely cocaine. Mr Rikthegazader was a businessman involved in the export of agricultural produce.
Mr Rikthegazader was staying at a hotel in Suva and was identified by a friend. He was found near the Accident and Emergency Ward with stab wounds and attempts by medical authorities to revive him proved futile.
Mr Rikthegazader was seen being dropped off in a silver-grey Prius, which was later found abandoned at Tacirua, Suva.
State prosecutor from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Juleen Fatiaki filed a nolle prosequi in the matter on both counts.
Justice Goundar said to Raiwalui that the DPP had decided to discontinue both charges against him and that the proceedings were terminated by the Court. He said to Raiwalui that he was free to go, however, Justice Goundar warned Raiwalui to appear for his pending case at the Magistrates Court and adhere to the bail conditions.