Court allows Ravu to travel to China

Former Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu has been granted a bail variation to travel to China as FICAC has no objection.

Ravu's lawyer Jioji Cakau informed the court that Ravu intends to travel between the 22nd to the 31st of October and return on the 1st of November.

It was noted that there was no documentation to confirm the dates of travel.

While delivering the ruling, Suva Magistrate Jeremiah Savou says the passport and uplifting of the stop departure order will be done once an itinerary is filed at the court registry and a copy is given to FICAC.

It is alleged that between 25th July to 31st August 2023, Ravu interfered in the lawful process of a Ministry of Fisheries and Forests investigation into the illegal trade of banned species of Beche-de-mer.

Ravu appeared in court with Ministry of Fisheries and Forests Regional Manager North, Tekata Toaisi, who is charged with one count of aiding and abetting abuse of office.

It is alleged that Toaisi, while employed with the Fisheries and Forests Ministry aided and abetted the Minister in committing the offence of abuse of office.

The matter has been adjourned to 7th of January next year.

The trial is from the 3rd to the 7th of February next year.