The High Court yesterday excused former corrections officer Epeli Laqeni, who is charged with killing his de facto partner, after hearing that he is recovering from surgery.
His lawyer, Timoci Varinava, told the court his client had undergone surgery on his right leg and was unable to attend proceedings while recuperating.
Mr Laqeni allegedly committed the offence in Nakasi between September 3 and 5, 2025.
Mr Varinava informed Justice Usaia Ratuvili that his client was also expected to undergo surgery on his left leg over the next 10 to 12 weeks.
Given his medical condition, the court granted a variation of bail, reducing his reporting conditions from once a week to once a month.
The case has been adjourned to July 21 for a pretrial conference.
