Murder accused remain in custody as case moves forward

A TikToker and three co-accused charged with murder will remain in custody as the State moves to consolidate the case into a single High Court proceeding.

Paula Caginicolo, Meli Bavesi, Suliasi Naikaimuri and Josivini Naisaucou appeared before Justice Aruna Aluthge in the High Court in Lautoka this morning.

The four are jointly charged with murder in relation to the death of Vilikesa Naicaba at Wairabetia on May 14, 2026.

The court heard allegations that the deceased and the accused were attending a drinking party when an argument allegedly developed. Prosecutors allege that Naicaba was seriously assaulted and struck with a piece of timber, causing him to lose consciousness. These allegations remain before the court and have not been proven.

The accused were represented by Salvin Nand of S Nand Lawyers, while the State was represented by John Vaurasi.

During the proceedings, the court granted the defence 14 days to consolidate information and disclosures.

The State indicated that it would consolidate the charges involving all four accused into a single proceeding.

No bail was granted and all four accused remain in custody while the matter progresses through the High Court.

The case will return to court after the disclosure and consolidation process has been completed.

As with all criminal proceedings, the accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by the court.