Vatia drug accused alleges assaults in custody

One of the accused in the Vatia drug case, Bainivalu Sauturaga, has alleged that he was repeatedly assaulted while in custody and had not received medical treatment previously ordered by the court.

Sauturaga appeared before Justice Samuela Qica in the High Court in Ba today.

He is among several accused persons facing charges in relation to the Vatia drug seizure. The other accused are Ponipate Mateyawa, John Tavola, Merewalesi Qolimaiwasa, Alejandro Gonzalez, Luciano Sanchez, Ramon Parraga, Jonathan Bermello and Norman Fisher.

The accused are alleged to have conspired between November 1, 2025, and January 15, 2026, to unlawfully import, transport, transfer and store approximately 2,644 kilograms of illicit drugs in and around Fiji.

During the proceedings, defence lawyer raised concerns about Sauturaga's welfare, informing the court that he had allegedly been assaulted on multiple occasions while in custody and had not received medical treatment previously ordered by the court.

The court heard that Sauturaga was allegedly assaulted again on April 19 while in prison, prompting a renewed application for hospital treatment and his appearance before the court on April 20.

Defence counsel asked the court to enforce its earlier medical orders and ensure that Sauturaga received the necessary treatment.

Justice Qica indicated that an order would be issued for Sauturaga to be taken to Aspen Hospital for medical assessment and treatment following the alleged assaults.

The court also sought clarification regarding the identity of those allegedly involved and the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

Counsel urged the court to ensure compliance with its orders and safeguard the accused's access to medical care while in detention.

Meanwhile, co-accused Norman Fisher, who is represented by Mark Anthony, informed the court that he was ready to enter his plea.

The matter was adjourned to July 31.