Seven drug convicts to challenge sentences in Court of Appeal

Seven individuals convicted in the importation of 4.1 tonnes of methamphetamine in Nadi will appeal their sentences to the Court of Appeal.

All nine accused were handed lengthy jail terms on August 28, including Justin Ho, David Heritage, Louie Logaivau, Jale Aukerea, Ratu Aporosa Davelevu, Ratu Osea Levula, Viliame Colawaliku, Sakiusa Tuva, and Cathy Tuirabe.

They were convicted of importing and possessing methamphetamine valued at $2 billion between November 2023 and January 2024.

Defence lawyers confirmed they would take advantage of the newly-opened Court of Appeal at the High Court in Ba.

Lawyer Mosese Naivalu stated that only two convicts, Cathy Tuirabe and Sakiusa Tuva, will not appeal, as they had pleaded guilty. The remaining seven have filed for appeal.

Defence lawyers Payal Reddy and Mark Anthony confirmed that appeals have been lodged and they are awaiting court dates.

The sentences handed down by Lautoka High Court Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge in August were as follows:

• Justin Ho: Life imprisonment with a non-parole period of 30 years
• David Heritage: 55 years with a non-parole period of 25 years
• Jale Aukerea: 50 years with a non-parole period of 25 years
• Louie Logaivau: 25 years with a non-parole period of 18 years
• Sakiusa Tuva: 25 years with a non-parole period of 18 years
• Ratu Aporosa Davelevu: 18 years with a non-parole period of 12 years
• Cathy Tuirabe: 15 years with a non-parole period of 14 years
• Ratu Osea Levula: 17 years with a non-parole period of 13 years
• Viliame Colawaliku: 15 years with a non-parole period of 12 years