Two remain in remand over alleged rape and murder of teen

Two men charged with the rape and murder of 18-year-old Venina Cirikeba Cava will remain in remand after the High Court in Lautoka gave the State a final 14-day extension to file the required information and disclosures.

Tevita Tora and Leveni Vuetibau appeared before Justice Riyaz Hamza yesterday.

The State was granted the extension because of the complexity and volume of evidence in the case.

Tora and Vuetibau each face one count of rape and one count of murder.

The court heard that on December 4, 2025, the two men allegedly raped Cava before causing her death.

On December 5, 2025, Police received a report of a woman lying motionless in a park near Aspen Medical-managed Lautoka Hospital.

The victim, who was from Rifle Range, was later identified as Cava.

Following a post-mortem examination, Police classified the case as murder.

State given final extension

State lawyer Laisiasa Baleilevuka requested the final 14-day extension, which was granted by Justice Hamza.

The State now has until September 3 to file the required information and disclosures.

The court also addressed delays arising from the volume of evidence and the post-mortem examination.

It confirmed the consolidation of related case files, with Justice Hamza stressing the importance of addressing both the rape and murder charges in the consolidated case.

Issues relating to proposed sureties for bail were also discussed.

The defence is awaiting the proposed sureties to visit its office and provide the necessary information.

The court directed that supplementary affidavits containing the surety details be filed by September 3.

Further time was also granted for any objections and necessary checks.

The matter will be called again on September 3 at 9.30am for plea mention.

Tora and Vuetibau will remain in remand.