Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Kalaveti Ravu appeared in the Sigatoka Magistrates Court after he was charged with one count of abuse of office by FICAC.
It is alleged that between 25th July to 31st August 2023, Kalaveti 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.
The court was also informed that Toaisi, whilst employed with the Fisheries and Forests Ministry aided and abetted the Minister in committing the offence of abuse of office.
Manager Legal, Laite Bokini-Ratu informed the Court that the first phase of disclosures has been served.
Resident Magistrate Jeremaia Savou has granted a cash bail of $1,000 for Ravu whilst Toaisi has been granted a non cash bail of $1,000.
Both accused have been ordered not to re-offend whilst on bail; not to interfere with the prosecution witnesses with other strict bail conditions including the surrender of travel documents to the Court Registry.
A Stop Departure Order has been issued against Ravu and Toaisi.
They have been ordered by the court to report to the Nabua and Lami Police Stations respectively on the last Saturday of every month commencing from 27th July 2024.
The matter has been adjourned to 29th July 2024.
We have also sent questions to Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka on Ravu’s status as Minister. He is yet to respond.
