Trial begins for robbery case

The trial for an $80,000 robbery at Lokia Shopping Center in Nausori in 2009 started yesterday in the Suva High Court.

First accused Josese Tuwaqa pleaded not guilty to charge of robbery with violence and second accused Josua Raitamata also pleaded not guilty to charge of conspiracy to commit a felony and receiving stolen property.

It is alleged that Tuwaqa with three others robbed one of the directors Nazeel Buksh of cash and cheque worth over $80,000.

Raitamata is alleged to have received $3,000, with knowledge that the property was stolen.

The victim Nazeel Buksh gave sworn in evidence before High Court Judge Justice Salesi Temo yesterday.

He told the court that he was robbed by four masked men.

According to Buksh he ran for his life and in the process dropped the box containing money, which the robbers got away with the cash in a car.  

Buksh said he chased the robbers and with the assistance of civilians and workmates they managed to arrest one man and $24,000 was recovered from him.

The case continues this morning.


Story by: Ronal Deo