Headteacher charged with manslaughter granted bail

A Lautoka‑based headteacher charged with manslaughter has been granted bail by the Nadi Magistrates’ Court.

Naseem Ali is facing one count of manslaughter and one count of failure to comply with post‑accident requirements following a fatal traffic incident last year.

Ali appeared before Resident Magistrate Amelia Korodrau.

It is alleged that on December 29, 2025, at Vitogo along Kings Road in Lautoka, Ali drove a motor vehicle in a manner that caused the death of Italo Laba. Police allege he was reckless as to the risk of harm.

Laba was discovered lying motionless in a roadside drain on January 3, 2026, by a villager from Vitogo.

Defence lawyer Anil Prasad applied for bail, citing Ali’s clean record, professional and family background, medical condition, and the absence of direct evidence or eyewitnesses.

The prosecution objected to bail due to the seriousness of the offence, but acknowledged that the case relies on circumstantial evidence.

The court granted bail with conditions, including the surrender of travel documents, regular reporting to police, provision of two sureties, and not changing address without permission.

The matter has been transferred to the High Court and will be called on May 14.

Court denies bail for man with no surety

Meanwhile, also appearing in court was Sachin Chandra who was further remanded in custody after failing to secure surety for bail.

Chandra is charged with one count of obtaining a financial advantage.

The court heard that on October 23, 2022, in Lautoka, Western Division, he allegedly obtained a financial advantage of $2800 in cash.

Chandra told the court he wished to be represented by Legal Aid and that he had no surety.

Korodrau extended his remand in custody. The matter is adjourned to May 14.

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