Murder trial delayed after investigating officer falls ill

The High Court in Suva has postponed closing submissions in the murder case of Anare Vuli Cilicewa because the officer handling the matter was unwell.

The case was called today before Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu, where the prosecution sought additional time before proceedings could continue.

Cilicewa, who is charged with one count of murder, is accused of causing the death of his de facto partner, 25-year-old Shabreen Shain Ali, during an alleged domestic altercation last year.

The court had been scheduled to hear closing submissions today.

However, the State told the court it was not in a position to proceed because the officer in charge of the matter was currently unwell.

Justice Bulamainaivalu adjourned the matter to June 4 and ordered that Cilicewa remain in custody until the case resumes.