The Lautoka High Court has ordered a group of individuals to vacate a flat owned the Public Rental Board.
In her ruling on July 11, 2025, Master of the High Court, Preetika Priyadarshni Prasad ruled in favour of PRB over a breach of tenancy agreement.
The flat is located on Block 2, Vakatora Housing.
The PRB submitted to court that upon routine inspections it was discovered the occupant of the flat were operating a canteen from the property and also selling loose cigarettes.
“Putting aside the fact that there may be insufficient evidence regarding the Defendants alleged conduct of selling cigarettes, there is sufficient evidence proving the other breach on which the Agreement has been terminated which is operation of a canteen by the Defendants without approval,” said Miss Prasad in her ruling.
“It must be noted that the Defendants have admitted that they are operating a canteen.”
“The Plaintiff (PRB) maintains that no approval has been granted to the Defendants to operate the same.”
“The Court finds that the Defendants have failed to establish any arguable defence or demonstrate any entitlement to continue occupying the Property.”
“No evidence has been presented to substantiate the Defendants’ claim of interest in the Property. At best the Defendant was occupying the Property pursuant to a weekly tenancy agreement, which was terminated when the Plaintiff served the Defendants with the Notice.”
