Colawailiku eligible for parole in 2037, gets 15 year jail term

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Viliame Colawailiku has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment, eligible for parole after 12 years in prison.

He was found guilty last month for his role in the 4.15-tonne drug case.

Colawailiku, who was also known as “Bill,” was among those who played a logistical role in the drug syndicate.

During the trial, he admitted to handling containers that he was told held tile adhesive but panicked and fled when one of the containers broke open, revealing a white substance later confirmed to be methamphetamine.

He claimed he took the job to earn money for his children’s school supplies and was recruited by co-accused Sakiusa Tuva.

While he denied knowing the containers held drugs, the court found his testimony inconsistent.

The prosecution presented evidence that challenged his claims, noting that he had also been previously charged with drug possession and had a history of dealing with illicit substances.