Ravu, Toaisi trial begins today
Magistrate Savou requested both parties to have the trial formally begin today.
Wednesday 05 February 2025 | 12:03
Ex-minister Kalaveti Ravu outside the Suva Magistrate’s Court on February 4, 2025. Photo: Beranadeta Nagatalevu
The trial against former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu and regional manager North - Tekata Toaisi will begin today.
Ravu who is charged with one count of abuse of office, and Toasi charged with aiding and abetting, appeared yesterday before Magistrate Jeremaia Savou at the Suva Magistrate’s Court.
Ravu was alleged to have interfered in the lawful process of a Ministry of Forestry investigation into the illegal trade of banned species of beche-de-mer while Toaisi is charged for aiding and abetting.
Related stories
Magistrate Savou requested both parties to have the trial formally begin today.
This is after the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption’s Manager Legal, Laite Bokini Ratu informed the court the nine witnesses they plan to present for the prosecution’s case.
The first witness will be the Permanent Secretary for Information who both parties have agreed to have her statement tendered to court.
Ravu’s ministerial assignment, Ministerial Declaration and a Declaration of his income was also tendered yesterday.
Also to appear as State prosecution witness:
- Former permanent secretary for the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests, Atelaite Rokosuka.
- Former director fisheries, Neomai Ravitu.
- Principal fisheries officer, Tarisi Toroca Shaw.
- Senior digital forensic investigator- Aporosa Vuinakelo; and
- Investigator, Meredani Tokainakoro.
Ms Ratu also told the court that another witness was in Cook Islands at the moment while another two were in Labasa.
Magistrate Savou has assured defence lawyer, Lavi Rokoika that admissibility issues that were raised will be reserved and dealt with as he makes his judgment.
The trial starts today.
Feedback: Beranadeta@fijisun.com.fj
