A retired ship captain with 39 years of experience, Savenaca Kadave took the stand as a defence witness in the trial of Tevita Kapawale, who is accused of murdering five fishing crew members in 2021.
30 year old Kapawale is charged with the deaths of five crew members aboard FV Tiro 2.
The incident allegedly took place on May 18th 2021, after a heated argument among crew members in the Mamanuca and Yasawa waters.
Defence witness, Kadave who spent two decades working on the vessel, described the design of the fishing boat and the specific functions of its various sections.
While giving evidence in the Suva High Court, he highlighted that it would be impossible for a person to survive for more than two hours if locked inside the fish hold.
He adds the boat could not sink unless it was deliberately sabotaged.
The trial continues in the High Court after it was determined that Kapawale has a case to answer.
The case has been adjourned to tomorrow.
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