DPP likely to apply for bail conditions review

THE Director of Public Prosecutions may apply for a review of the bail conditions of 13 accused persons charged with involvement in the movement of more than 4.3 tonnes of methamphetamine in the greater Nadi area in recent weeks.

Following a successful review of their bail conditions in the Nadi Magistrate’s Court yesterday, acting DPP John Rabuku told the court they would need time to assess the sureties’ details and information.

The 13 accused were all present in court alongside their designated sureties after being released on bail on Monday.

Magistrate Jioji Boseiwaqa had ruled on Monday the accused persons’ constitutional rights were breached when they were kept in police custody for more than 48 hours without being charged during the course of the investigation.

The 13 are Justin Ho, 32, David Otto Heritage, 44, Louie Frank Penijamini Logaivau, 22, Isaac Lesiyanawai, 40, Ratu Aporosa Davelevu, 44, Sakiusa Tuva, 30, Iosefo Roqica, 29, Maika Yabakivou, 27, Ratu Osea Levula, 30, Cathy Tuirabe, 31, Nancy Mateyawa, 29, Jale Aukerea, 42, and Keanie Lilo McPherson, 29.

Of the 13 accused persons, Justin Ho and David Otto Heritage are charged with unlawful importation of illicit drugs.

They are alleged to have facilitated the importation and were found in possession of 4.8 tonnes of methamphetamine, an illicit drug.

Additionally, three of the 13 accused persons — Justin Ho, Louie Frank Penijamini Logaivau and Jale Aukerea — are charged with possession of property suspected of being proceeds of crime.

It is alleged the three accused persons were found in possession of cash (local and overseas currency) suspected of being proceeds of crime on January 23 at Taveuni, in the Northern Division.

The case will be called on Friday in the High Court in Lautoka.