Accused partner‑killer granted bail due to medical condition

Former corrections officer Epeli Laqeni, who is accused of killing his de facto partner in Nakasi last year, was granted bail by the High Court in Suva this morning.

Delivering the ruling, Justice Usaia Ratuvili said the court considered Laqeni’s serious medical condition, including the need for urgent corrective surgery to help him walk properly.

The court also noted that he is a first offender, has no travel documents, and presented two sureties willing to supervise him.

The two sureties present in court were his cousin, Noa Rokovada, and his uncle, Mesake Turuva.

The State prosecution had opposed bail, arguing that the charge is serious and carries a potentially lengthy prison sentence if he is convicted. Prosecutors also told the court that the case includes alleged admissions made by the accused and raised concerns that he could interfere with witnesses known to him, including former colleagues and neighbours.

Justice Ratuvili ruled that it was in the interest of justice to grant bail under strict conditions.

Bail conditions:

• Laqeni must provide a $5,000 non‑cash bond;
• He must report to Police every Sunday;
• He must avoid all prosecution witnesses; and
• A departure order and interim domestic violence restraining order remain in force.

The case has been adjourned to March 24 for mention.

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