The bail ruling for Alipate Matadigo, Sevuloni Lubi, Eroni Bati and Ratu Lote Leweivuna, who are alleged to be involved in the importation of 4.7 kilograms of methamphetamine, is set for Tuesday, 27th January.
The four accused appeared before Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola, who consolidated their cases.
Ratu Lote and Lubi are charged with unlawful possession of illicit drugs, Bati is charged with the unlawful importation of illicit drugs, and Matadigo is charged with the transportation of illicit drugs.
Ratu Lote’s lawyer, Kalisito Maisamoa, told the court that he will submit a written submission and that they will rely on the affidavit they have submitted.
He says his client has assured him that he will respect the strict conditions of bail.
Jioji Cakau, who is representing Lubi and Bati, says he will be applying for a review of bail.
He says Lubi has two daughters and needs to support their education.
Cakau says Bati has four children between the ages of 4 and 14 years.
He highlighted that Bati’s wife works in a restaurant and needs her husband’s assistance with the children’s education.
Cakau adds that Bati has been in custody for 117 days.
He also says they are applying for Bati to be checked by a doctor as his leg is heavily bandaged and has worsened in prison.
Matadigo’s lawyer informed the court that he will be applying for bail for his client under Section 14(1) of the Bail Act.
State prosecutor Unal Lal objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offence.
He says their witnesses in the cases are not limited to police officers but also civilians.
The court has given seven days for the prosecution to serve the disclosures to the defence.
The case has been adjourned to Tuesday, 27th January.
