Man to face trial over alleged rape of Aussie flight attendant
State and defence confirm their witnesses and pre-trial documents are ready.
Friday 14 August 2026 | 12:30
Updated 14 August 2026 | 13:51 FJT
Accused Ilaisa Tanoa Degei outside the High Court in Lautoka.
Photo: Mereleki Nai
The State and defence are ready for the trial of Ilaisa Tanoa Degei, who is accused of sexual assault and rape.
Degei, 25, of Nasama Village in Navosa, appeared before Justice Sunil Sharma at the High Court in Lautoka today. He is accused of one count each of sexual assault and rape.
The charges relate to an alleged incident involving an Australian airline cabin crew member after New Year celebrations at Bar One nightclub in Martintar, Nadi, on December 31, 2024.
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The State is represented by Pranita Prakash. The court heard that the woman arrived in Nadi as a flight attendant on December 31 before socialising with colleagues.
She later drank at a hotel bar before going to Bar One nightclub in Martintar, where she became intoxicated and separated from her group before meeting Degei.
It is alleged Degei insisted on accompanying her back to her hotel. The court heard that during the taxi ride, the woman was crying and resisting.
The taxi driver later reported the matter to Namaka Police Station, leading to Degei’s arrest at the hotel entrance.
The court was told the State’s pre-trial conference documents were in order and witnesses for both sides were ready. The trial has been set for September 7.
