Ex-firefighters to face trial over alleged evacuation plan payments

Two former National Fire Authority officers will stand trial after the Nadi Magistrates Court today dismissed their No Case to Answer submissions in a corruption-related case.

Nacanieli Raitokala faces 10 counts of Soliciting and Accepting an Advantage, while Tanoa Ledua Ledua Junior is charged with eight counts of Aiding and Abetting.

It is alleged that between September 1, 2020 and April 30, 2021, the two men, while serving at the Nadi Fire Station, solicited and accepted payments totalling $1,241 from various companies for the preparation of fire evacuation plans.

In her ruling, Resident Magistrate Talei Kean said there was evidence capable of supporting the prosecution’s case against both accused persons.

The court heard that prosecution witnesses gave evidence alleging that following inspections carried out in an official capacity, payments were solicited or received in relation to the preparation of fire evacuation plans.

In relation to Mr Ledua, the court noted evidence that he had assisted in preparing evacuation plans linked to the alleged offending.

The court subsequently dismissed the No Case to Answer submissions made on behalf of both accused persons.

The matter will now proceed to trial.