Bua farmer remanded over alleged Boxing Day murder

A 45-year-old farmer accused of stabbing a 23-year-old man to death over alleged kava theft was remanded by the Savusavu Magistrate Court today.

Jonasa Matakibau of Batinivuriwai Settlement in Wainunu, Bua, appeared before Magistrate Panapasa Tawake.

He is charged with one count of murder.

It is alleged Matakibau stabbed George Brown during a brawl at the settlement’s bus shelter on the morning of December 26, Boxing Day.

Brown was later found lying near the roadside with a stab wound to his chest.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Rinesh Prasad objected to bail, telling the court the offence was serious and indictable and should be heard before the High Court in Labasa.

He said investigations were continuing, including work at the crime scene and for the accused’s safety sought for him to be further remanded in custody at the Labasa Corrections Centre.

Matakibau will be represented by Sen Lawyers for the purposes of his bail application.

The matter has been adjourned to January 6, 2026.