Osea Raicama Dakai who was jointly charged with Nigerian national Chukwuemeka Ikenna Phabian, Apenisa Laisave Matadigo, Uraia Tuidama Bolalailai and Neumi Donumainasava, with unlawfully importing 4.8685kg of methamphetamine between March 30th and May 16th 2025, in Nadi, and further charged with breach of secrecy, is now a free man just two days into his trial after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions said they will discontinue the case against him.
While responding to the withdrawal of his client's charges, Dakai's lawyer, Simione Valenitabua says as the Chief Customs Officer of the Integrated Targeting Centre, the official records confirm that it was Dakai's direct intelligence gathering and subsequent official border alerts that successfully intercepted this illicit consignment, and Dakai did his duty to his country.
Valenitabua says they have always maintained faith that justice would prevail, and today, those prayers have been answered.
He says they also wish to publicly extend their deepest appreciation to the Acting Director of
Public Prosecutions, John Rabuku and his trial team.
The counsel says the decision to withdraw these charges reflects the absolute highest standard Of prosecutorial integrity.
He says the State listened to their representations, objectively reviewed the exculpatory documentary evidence, and made a courageous, honourable decision in the interest of justice, and they commend the Office of the DPP for recognizing that a prosecutor's duty is not merely to secure convictions, but to seek the truth.
Valenitabua says the evidence in this matter clearly demonstrated that Dakai acted lawfully, proactively, and with profound dedication to protecting the borders of Fiji.
The trial continues for the remaining four men.
