Man who allegedly murdered 17-year-old boy expected to change his plea

Samuel Naicker, who allegedly murdered a 17-year-old boy in May 2022 and initially pleaded not guilty, is expected to change his plea.

The matter was called in the Suva High Court this morning before Judge Justice Siainiu Bull, where the DPP lawyer informed the court that they had received information about Naicker intending to change his plea.

Naicker's lawyer, Manisha Singh, informed the court that Naicker had told her he arrived from the West and was at the Totogo Police Station last night, awaiting the matter to be called today. However, he was rushed to the CWM Hospital by some officers as his health had deteriorated.

Justice Bull has adjourned the matter until this Friday.

According to court documents, Naicker allegedly strangled the boy's neck with a tracksuit lace.

It is also alleged that Naicker stole the boy's mobile phone valued at $229, $150 cash, and his wallet, which was valued at $35.

The 33-year-old is also accused of stealing $400 cash from a property belonging to another man on the same day.

The boy was found dead by a relative inside his bedroom.

Before the discovery, Naicker came by and was known to the family to be spending the night.

Police say when the relative checked on the two at around 10 pm, she discovered the man was missing.

Naicker is charged with one count of murder and two counts of theft.