State drops push for conviction in alleged temple sacrilege case

A major development emerged in the Samabula Shiv Temple case today, as State prosecutors confirmed they will no longer seek a conviction against Samuela Tawase.

Tawase had been facing charges of sacrilege and damaging property following the temple incident on July 13, 2025.

The decision was revealed during closing submissions at the Suva Magistrates Court before Magistrate Yogesh Prasad, where State lawyer Livai Tuivuiya told the court that Tawase’s mental condition at the time makes a guilty verdict inappropriate.

According to the prosecution, Tawase was suffering from schizophrenia when the alleged offences occurred, raising serious doubts about his ability to understand or intend his actions.

Medical evidence from two specialists at St Giles Hospital supported this, indicating he was not mentally fit during the incident.

Instead of pursuing a conviction, the State is now asking the court to consider a not guilty ruling and to place Tawase under medical care at St Giles Hospital for treatment and supervision.

Magistrate Prasad acknowledged Tawase’s time in custody and noted signs of improvement, but stressed that recovery and rehabilitation must come first before any return to society.

A ruling is expected on Friday, May 8.