Vatia drug bust accused granted bail as State considers immunity

One of the accused in the Vatia drug bust was released on strict bail conditions by the High Court in Ba today.

Munendra, a carrier driver, appeared before Justice Samuela Qica facing one count of unlawful possession of illicit drugs and one count of serious assault.

He was represented by Jiten Reddy of Jiten Reddy Lawyers, while John Rabuku appeared for the State.

Mr Rabuku told the court the State was reconsidering Munendra’s position in the case. He said the prosecution did not object to bail and supported his release under strict conditions.

The State is also considering granting him immunity, with Munendra expected to provide a statement to investigators next week. Following that, the State is likely to file a nolle prosequi to discontinue the charges.

Justice Qica imposed strict bail conditions, including that the accused must report to Ba Police Station between 6am and 6pm every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

He has also been placed under curfew, ordered not to reoffend, and directed to surrender his passport.

Munendra was among six people, including four foreign nationals, arrested following the seizure of 2,630 parcels of cocaine at Vatia Wharf in Tavua on January 15. Forensic analysis confirmed all parcels tested positive for cocaine, with a total weight of 2.64 tonnes and an estimated street value of A$780 million.

The matter has been adjourned to March 20.