Judge urges murder accused to seek Legal Aid
20-year-old faces murder and burglary charges over alleged death of Nadi man
Monday 17 August 2026 | 13:00
High Court in Lautoka Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge has advised a murder accused to seek assistance from the Legal Aid Commission rather than representing himself.
Twenty-year-old Vereti Tavisoro appeared before Justice Aluthge charged with one count each of burglary and murder.
The court heard that Tavisoro allegedly murdered 77-year-old Jafar Ali at Martintar Apartment in Nadi last month.
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Mr Ali was found lying motionless in his room at the apartment complex after the matter was reported to the Nadi Police Station on July 27.
Tavisoro told the court he wished to represent himself and said nobody had advised him on his decision.
However, Justice Aluthge advised him that, given the seriousness of the charges, he should seek legal representation.
“Why don't you get assistance from the Legal Aid Commission? This is a serious charge. Legal Aid is free of charge,” the judge told the accused.
The State was represented by Winny Yee, who sought 21 days to file disclosures.
Justice Aluthge reminded Ms Yee to inform Joeli Naivalu, who will represent the State in the case, that the accused should be properly advised to seek Legal Aid assistance because of the seriousness of the matter.
Tavisoro remains in remand. The State is expected to file its disclosures on August 31.
