A 36-year-old man facing charges related to the alleged importation of 4.7 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine should be denied bail due to the seriousness of the offence, which represents the second-highest drug bust in Fiji.
This was the submission of prosecutor Unal Lal in response to Alipate Matadigo’s bail application, heard before Magistrate Charles Ratakele today.
According to his bail grounds, Mr Matadigo sought release to assist his elderly parents, saying he is the sole breadwinner and also suffers from a medical condition.
His lawyer from the Legal Aid Commission told the court that his client is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Mr Lal argued that the grounds for bail were insufficient, given the large quantity of drugs allegedly imported. He said Mr Matadigo’s medical condition could be managed at the remand centre, and if necessary, he could be taken to hospital under a court order.
Mr Lal submitted that granting bail would not be in the best interests of justice.
Mr Ratakele will deliver his ruling on November 18.
