Two men appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court yesterday charged with bribery in connection with government-awarded construction projects.
Former Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources official, Alivereti Tikoilakeba, and ex-construction company director, Rauni Bulivakacegu, each face one count of bribery.
They appeared before Resident Magistrate Sufia Hamza.
FICAC alleges that between 15 September 2016 and 24 February 2019, Mr Bulivakacegu offered $7,900 in cash and electronic transfers to Mr Tikoilakeba as an inducement for approving payments and securing ministry projects for his company.
Mr Tikoilakeba is accused of accepting the payments in exchange for approving 13 payment vouchers worth $117,787.13 and facilitating three maintenance contracts.
FICAC prosecutor Sameea Nisa confirmed that first-phase disclosures have been served.
Both men were granted bail with strict conditions, including a Stop Departure Order, surrender of travel documents, and monthly reporting to designated authorities.
The case has been adjourned to 27 August 2025 for second-phase disclosures.
