Earlier hearing granted in Lautoka murder case

Three men charged alongside a woman in a murder case successfully secured an earlier court date after asking the High Court in Lautoka to shorten an initial 21-day adjournment.

Suliasi Naikaimuri, Josivini Naisaucou and Meli Bavesi made the request when they appeared with co-accused TikToker Paula Caginicolo before Justice Sunil Sharma today.

The four are charged with one count of murder in relation to the alleged death of Vilikesa Naicaba at Wairabetia, Lautoka, on May 14, 2026.

Justice Sharma had initially indicated an adjournment period of 21 days, but the three accused asked the court to bring the matter forward.

During proceedings, Naisaucou became emotional and pleaded for bail to be granted, while Naikaimuri told the court he had young children and a family to support.

Justice Sharma explained that legal procedures must be followed before any bail application can be considered and advised that substantive applications be filed through the court registry.

The court heard that the accused allegedly assaulted Naicaba during a drinking party after an argument broke out on May 14. It is alleged he was struck with a piece of timber and lost consciousness.

Bail was denied, but the court granted a shorter adjournment. The matter will now be called again on June 28.

All four accused remain in remand custody and are represented by lawyer Salvin Nand of S Nand Lawyers.