Judge questions missing reports in police officer’s murder case

High Court Judge Justice Daniel Goundar has questioned why key investigation reports remain outstanding in the murder case of late Lami-based Police Constable Peniasi Racagi.

The court heard Police were still awaiting the post-mortem report and interview records despite charges already being laid against two accused men.

Justice Goundar made the remarks today when accused Keni Salawai and Jope Seniloli appeared before the High Court in Suva.

He said the delays were concerning, particularly because the victim was a police officer and the matter was of public interest.

Justice Goundar questioned why the reports were still unavailable and said the delays were difficult to understand given the victim was a police officer.

The judge said the missing dockets and delays raised serious concerns, especially because the matter involved one of the Fiji Police Force’s own officers.

Defence lawyer Tobia Ravuniwa told the court that Salawai and his family continued to live in fear, claiming family members were allegedly being targeted.

Mr Ravuniwa also requested that proceedings move forward without further delays, saying the defence wanted this to be the final adjournment so the matter could proceed.

In response, Justice Goundar said it was still too early in the process as investigations were continuing.

Defence lawyer Iva Seduadua, representing Seniloli, also applied for bail variations relating to her client’s place of residence and requested relocation. Justice Goundar granted the application.

The court also heard that DNA results from swabs voluntarily provided by both accused were still being processed in New Zealand.

State lawyers said they expected to receive the outstanding documents before the next court appearance.

The matter was adjourned to May 22, with bail extended for both accused.