State alleges mastermind behind Tavua cocaine seizure

The State has alleged that Ponipate Seuvou Mateyawa was the mastermind behind the importation of cocaine seized at Vatia Wharf in Tavua earlier this year.

Mateyawa is among six accused persons remanded in custody following the seizure of 2,630 parcels of cocaine.

The High Court in Ba, presided over by Justice Samuela Qica, heard bail applications for Mateyawa, Bainivalu Suguturaga, John Taotala, Merewalesi Qalomaiwasa and Norman Fisher.

They are charged with conspiracy to import illicit drugs. Some also face charges related to possession of proceeds of crime.

The State is represented by Joeli Naivalu.

Filimoni Daveta, representing Suguturaga, argued for bail on the grounds of medical clearance, no prior convictions, family responsibilities and willingness to comply with strict conditions.

The State opposed the application, citing the seriousness of the charges, alleged prior involvement in similar offences, risk of witness interference, and broader public interest concerns.

Mateyawa’s lawyer, from Seniroqa Law, argued that his client posed no threat to society, was a working individual supporting his family and would comply with strict bail conditions.

The defence also submitted that there were no drugs found on the vessel.

In response, the State alleged that Mateyawa coordinated the importation, recruited co-accused including Qalomaiwasa and Taotala, and had links to a drug cartel in New Zealand.

“He should not be trusted with bail,” the State submitted, adding that the proposed sureties lacked financial capacity.

Unaisi Baleilevuka, representing Taotala and Qalomaiwasa, argued that while the charges were serious, this alone should not justify denial of bail.

She cited lack of direct evidence, no prior convictions and proposed strict conditions, including surrender of passports.

The State opposed bail, highlighting the accused’s foreign status, flight risk and lack of local ties.

Mark Anthony, representing Fisher, said his client had no history of breaching bail and there was no evidence linking him to possession of drugs.

The State responded that Fisher had two pending drug-related cases before the Lautoka High Court and posed a risk to witnesses if granted bail.

Justice Qica is expected to deliver his ruling on May 6.

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