NZ national’s murder case set for trial
The High Court in Suva will hear the trial of a 32-year-old farmer facing murder and drug charges beginning from July 27.
Rusiate Raiwalui, who is facing one count each of murder and of unlawful possession of illicit drug, appeared before Judge Justice Daniel Goundar yesterday.
His trial has been set to take place from July 27 to August 14.
For the offence of murder, it is 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 is 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. Defence lawyer from the Legal Aid Commission Jalesi Korotini told the court that Legal Aid was confirmed and approved for the accused and that Legal Aid would be representing him in trial.
State prosecutor from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Eoghan Samisoni told the court that the State was ready to proceed to trial.
The matter has been adjourned for a pre-trial conference on June 29. Raiwalui has been further remanded in custody.