State lines up 29 witnesses in murder trial

The High Court in Suva has further remanded Anare Vuli Cilicewa in custody as the State prepares to call 29 witnesses in the alleged murder of his de facto partner, Shabreen Ali.

Cilicewa appeared before Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu this morning charged with murder following an incident in 2024.

The State alleges that Ms Ali was assaulted during an argument, sustaining injuries that later led to her death.

State prosecutor Zenith Zunaid told the court the prosecution was ready to proceed to trial and would rely on eyewitness testimony, circumstantial evidence and DNA evidence.

He said 29 witnesses were listed, although the number may be reduced through agreed facts between both parties.

The court heard there was no dispute over the cause of death.

Medical evidence shows Ms Ali died from asphyxia caused by strangulation and choking.

Mr Zunaid said the only issue for determination at trial would be the identity of the person responsible for causing her death.

During the hearing, the accused raised concerns, claiming he had been assaulted on several occasions while being held at the remand centre.

The matter has been adjourned to February 3, 2025.