Pregnant wife killer found guilty

A man who admitted planning the death of his pregnant wife has been convicted of murder by the High Court in Suva.

Apisai Madigibuli was found guilty of one count of murder for killing his pregnant wife, Kitiana Baravilala, at a Suva apartment on April 25, 2024.

Delivering his judgment, Justice Dane Tuiqereqere said Madigibuli had revealed during a police caution interview that he intended to kill his wife.

The court heard that Baravilala, who was pregnant at the time, died after being stabbed multiple times.

Evidence presented during the trial showed that Madigibuli had purchased the kitchen knife used in the attack weeks before the incident.

The State called 14 witnesses, including forensic officers who examined and reconstructed the crime scene.

Police interview recordings were also tendered as evidence, detailing events before and after the killing.

Madigibuli represented himself during the trial and elected to remain silent in his defence.

Justice Tuiqereqere found that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and convicted Madigibuli of murder.

The matter was adjourned to June 16 for sentencing.