Three of six men charged with transporting 26.03 kilograms of marijuana to Suva have been unable to reach their lawyer, Jerry Dinati.
Apisai Daveta, Tevita Vuki, and Timoci Lolohea told the court yesterday that attempts to contact Mr Dinati were unsuccessful. The three are jointly charged with Letia Tokoni, Sakiusa Timi, and Saimoni Mule over unlawful possession of illicit drugs in September 2025. Mr Lolohea also faces an additional charge of unlawful cultivation.
The matter was initially called before Acting Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola at 9.30am, but Mr Dinati failed to appear. When recalled at midday, he was still absent, prompting the magistrate to have police call his name three times to no avail.
Meanwhile, Mr Tokoni, Mr Timi, and Mr Mule pleaded not guilty. Their lawyer, Amani Bale, said he will file voir dire grounds challenging Mr Mule’s admission in the caution interview.
The case has been adjourned to February 26 to fix a voir dire trial date and for the remaining accused to enter their pleas.
