The Suva Magistrate’s Court will deliver bail rulings in two separate cases involving 4.7 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine.
One of the two police officers who were arrested, charged and held in custody for their alleged involvement in the importation and possession of meth had told the court of his fear of contracting HIV while being in remand.
Lawyer Joji Cakau had told the court that his client Sevuloni Lubi, 43, is required to shave regularly while in remand and is concerned about the sharing of shaving blades and the use of other utensils, which he claims could be contaminated with HIV.
Mr Lubi, 43, was charged with Ratu Lote Lewaivanua, 31, who was allegedly found in possession of $650, suspected to be proceeds of crime, on September 12.
In response to this claim, prosecutor Unal Lal argued that the High Court had already addressed the issue of HIV concerns through established case law.
Mr Lal maintained his objection to bail, saying Mr Cakau’s submission and his client’s concerns were not supported by any evidential report.
He said the application presented no new or changed circumstances.
In a separate case, a 36- year-old man is also facing charges related to the importation of methamphetamine.
During his bail hearing last week, Alipate Matadigo sought release from custody so he could assist his elderly parents, saying he is the sole breadwinner and suffers from a medical condition.
His lawyer from the Legal Aid Commission told the court his client is presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, Mr Lal argued that the grounds for bail were insufficient, given the large quantity of drugs involved.
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.
The separate matters were listed for ruling yesterday before Magistrate Charles Ratakele, however, this was adjourned.
Mr Ratakele will rule on their bail applications on November 24.
