Nadi consultant bailed after missing court date

A local business consultant was bailed by the Nadi Magistrate Court after he was charged with breaching his bail conditions.

Sanil Rishi appeared before Magistrate Mareta Tikoisuva yesterday, facing one count of failing to comply with bail terms.

The court heard that Rishi, a member of the Hash House Harriers, was arrested at Nadi International Airport last Saturday evening after returning from Taiwan.

Police prosecutor Constable Shavneel Deo represented the State, while defence counsel Rajshneel Chand of Ace Legal represented the accused.

Rishi allegedly absconded from court by failing to appear for a judgment on November 11.

The matter was initially called before 12.30 pm, but the accused was reportedly unaware of a change in the court date. By the next scheduled hearing on November 20, he was out of the country.

Mr Chand told the court that his client was notified late about the change in the court date.

He also noted that Rishi had been participating in the Pan Asia Hash in Taiwan and was promoting the upcoming Pan Pacific Hash, set to be held in Nadi in 2027.

The defence further highlighted that Rishi is a single father and frequently travels internationally for work since 2020. He is not considered a flight risk and has surety.

Magistrate Tikoisuva granted bail with a $500 cash bond.

The matter is scheduled to be called on December 12 for disclosures.