Defence challenges police interview in Vuinakelo death case

A tertiary student charged in connection with the death of Jone Vuinakelo at Nauluvatu Settlement, Suva, earlier this year is challenging key evidence in the case.

In the High Court in Suva today, defence lawyer Kalisito Maisamoa told Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu that his client, Aisake Lovobalavu, was still under the influence of alcohol when interviewed by Police.

Mr Maisamoa argued that Lovobalavu’s admissions during a Police caution interview were not made voluntarily and should therefore be ruled inadmissible.

He said the defence would file grounds for a voir dire hearing to challenge the admissibility of the interview, submitting that Lovobalavu had been induced by Police and responded to questions while affected by alcohol.

The defence is also seeking further disclosures from the prosecution, including the post-mortem report. Senior State prosecutor Eoghn Samisoni said the outstanding medical documents would be provided once the toxicology report is received.

Lovobalavu faces one count of manslaughter arising from a March incident that resulted in Vuinakelo’s death. It is alleged the two men were last seen drinking together before the incident.

His co-accused, Alexander Leweniqila, 19, and Manoa Vakavuniwalu, 19, had their charges dropped last month. All three were initially charged with Vuinakelo’s alleged murder.

The court extended Lovobalavu’s bail and adjourned the matter to July 15, when a trial date is expected to be set.