Suspended police officers remanded as court hears bail in meth case

Four men, including two suspended senior police officers, were further remanded in custody yesterday as the Magistrates Court heard bail arguments in a case linked to the alleged unlawful importation and possession of methamphetamine.

The accused are suspended senior police officers Sevuloni Lubi and Ratu Lote Leweivuna, along with civilians Eroni Bati and Alipate Matadigo.

They appeared before Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola, with the matter called solely to hear submissions on whether the accused should be granted bail while proceedings continue.

Counsel Kalisito Maisamoa, appearing for Leweivuna, told the court that the seriousness of the charge alone should not be grounds to deny bail.

He submitted that the court should consider the full circumstances of the accused, including personal background and health issues.

Mr Maisamoa said the potential length of imprisonment should not automatically determine a bail decision and urged the court to consider medical concerns raised on behalf of his client.

Meanwhile, Joji Cakau of Vosarogo Lawyers, appearing for Lubi and Bati, submitted that bail may be granted where “unusual or exceptional circumstances” exist.

He told the court such circumstances were present in his clients’ cases and should be carefully weighed.

Mr Cakau also informed the court that the defence was seeking bail either through fresh applications or by way of a bail review.

State prosecutor Unal Lal said the fourth accused, Matadigo, had not formally applied for bail, having made only a verbal application.

Mr Lal also argued that the accused posed a high risk of interfering with investigations if released.

The court is expected to deliver its ruling on bail on January 27, 2026.