Meth import cases merged in Suva court

The Suva Magistrate Court has granted the State prosecution’s request to consolidate three cases linked to the alleged importation of 4.7 kilograms of methamphetamine from the United States.

The cases involve Eroni Bati, Ratu Lote Leweivuna and Sevuloni Lubi, who are charged with unlawful importation and possession of 4.7kg of methamphetamine.

Alipate Matadigo is charged with unlawfully transporting the drugs.

State prosecutor Unal Lal appeared in all three matters before Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola today.

During proceedings, Leweivuna’s lawyer, Kalisito Maisamoa, told the court his client was the only accused objecting to the consolidation, citing discrepancies between the information held by the defence and the State.

Maisamoa said police initially identified the seized drugs as methamphetamine hydrochloride, but later removed “hydrochloride” and charged his client with methamphetamine.

He also said his client was not the importer, as alleged by the prosecution, and claimed defence information indicated another person was responsible.

Lal responded that consolidation was sought because the charges were similar in nature, the drugs were allegedly imported from Los Angeles, and the State intended to call the same witnesses in all three cases.

Meanwhile, Lal asked the court to caution Maisamoa over the manner in which he approached him, alleging loud and arrogant questioning over repeated objections to his client’s bail.

Maisamoa admitted approaching Lal but denied being loud or arrogant, saying he had the right to question the State prosecution's position.

Chief Magistrate Waqaivolavola cautioned Maisamoa, stating that Lal was an officer of the court tasked with ensuring justice prevails.

Bati and Lubi are represented by Vosarogo Lawyers’ Joji Cakau, while Matadigo is represented by the Legal Aid Commission’s Lanieta Gonewai.

All defence lawyers told the court they would apply for further bail reviews for their clients, citing changed circumstances.

The Chief Magistrate gave Lal until January 13 to file and serve the consolidated charges and disclosures, and to respond to the bail review applications.

All accused remain in remand until then.