Plea deferred in 2023 ferris wheel fatality case

A 34-year-old Occupational Health and Safety inspector, Ashneel Nath, charged with the fatal 2023 Ferris wheel incident in Suva, will now take his plea at a later date after delays in court proceedings.

Nath appeared before the High Court in Suva yesterday, facing a charge of manslaughter arising from an alleged breach of duty.

The charge relates to the death of a 21-year-old woman who fell from a Ferris wheel during the 2023 Vodafone Showcase at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.

The plea was adjourned after defence lawyer, Kamal Jamnadas, argued that the prosecution’s summary of facts was unclear and failed to properly outline the allegations against his client.

During subsequent proceedings, the defence sought additional time to file amendments, citing extensive research and the need to clarify key issues.

The court granted time until the end of May.

Mr Jamnadas also raised concerns about inconsistencies in the prosecution’s evidence, pointing to reports and photographs taken days after the incident that allegedly show conflicting conditions of the machinery.

The defence also questioned how damage could have occurred after the incident and who were responsible, indicating further inquiries would be made with relevant authorities.

The prosecution acknowledged that further investigation was required, including into events between the certification of the equipment and the incident.

The court heard that Nath was not operating the machinery but is alleged to have certified it.

Meanwhile, the company involved has since shut down, with its directors reportedly untraceable and subject to a separate investigation.

Nath remains on bail under existing conditions, including surrender of travel documents and non-interference with witnesses.

The court has directed the prosecution to provide full disclosures as the case proceeds.