Judge concerned over delays in high-profile cocaine case

A High Court judge has expressed concern over the length of a high-profile cocaine case involving a former Fiji Airways senior flight attendant and his co-accused, saying the matter has been before the courts for years.

The case involving Fredrick Epeli and Justin Ho was called before Justice Burney at the High Court in Lautoka yesterday.

Ho remains on remand, while Epeli is on bail. Both face one count each of unlawful exportation of illicit drugs and unlawful possession of illicit drugs.

The State alleges that on December 23, 2018, the two men attempted to export 2015.7 grams of cocaine to Sydney, Australia.

The prosecution further alleges that the men were involved in the transfer, transportation, supply and sale of illicit drugs.

According to the State, Epeli allegedly arranged for a bag containing the drugs to be handled in connection with Ho.

A female flight attendant, who was allegedly instructed by Epeli to check the bag, discovered the suspected drugs and alerted police.

The matter was called after Epeli's lawyer, Aca Rayawa, interrupted a murder trial to explain that he had travelled from Suva and needed to return. He asked for the drug case to be called first.

Justice Burney then questioned the absence of Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku, who is handling the case.

“I expect the counsels to be here. I am worried that this case has been going on for years,” Justice Burney said.

The judge also asked whether the lawyers had been served with the amended information. Both defence lawyers said they had not received it and had not requested it.

“If you don't ask, you don't get it. He is busy with other things. I encourage you both to be proactive,” Justice Burney told the lawyers.

Rayawa represents Epeli, while Samuela Heritage represents Ho. The State is represented by Michelle Lomaloma. The trial is scheduled to begin on November 18.