Not guilty pleas entered in Kadavu marijuana case

Three of the six men charged in connection with the alleged transportation of more than 26 kilograms of marijuana from Kadavu to Suva have pleaded not guilty.

Letia Tokoni, Sakiusa Timi and Saimoni Mule entered their pleas yesterday before Acting Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola and Resident Magistrate Aisea Paka at the Suva Magistrates Court. They are represented by Amani Bale, senior partner at Lal Patel Bale Lawyers.

The three appeared alongside co-accused Apisai Daveta, Tevita Vuki and Timoci Lolohea, who were unable to take their pleas after their lawyer, Jerry Dinati, failed to appear in court.

All six men face one count of unlawful possession of illicit drugs after allegedly being found with 26,023.2 grams of cannabis on September 22 last year.

Lolohea also faces two additional charges after allegedly being found in possession of 226.5 grams and 5,150 grams of cannabis on September 24, 2025.

The matter was stood down to midday to allow Daveta, Vuki and Lolohea time to locate their lawyer. However, Mr Dinati did not appear when proceedings resumed.

When questioned by the court, Daveta said attempts had been made to contact their lawyer but his phone was switched off. The Acting Chief Magistrate directed a police officer to call Mr Dinati’s name outside the courtroom three times before proceeding.

The case has been adjourned to March 3. Bale’s clients are expected to proceed with a voir dire application, while Dinati’s clients are expected to enter their pleas.

All six accused remain on bail.