Three relatives of the five victims, who were killed by High seas murder accused Tevita Qaqa Kapawale, shared with the High Court how their lives have significantly changed since the 2021 incident.
Alongside the victims’ families, Kaminieli Tucama took the stand, as Kapawale had also attempted to kill him aboard the MV Tiro II.
The courtroom was filled with relatives of both the victims and Kapawale during this morning’s proceedings.
Justice Dane Tuiqereqere had found Kapawale guilty earlier this month for five counts of murder and a count each of attempted murder and criminal intimidation.
The court also heard that Kapawale is not happy with the judgment delivered.
State lawyer Triveshni Sharma noted that this was a unique case in Fiji, the first of its kind in 15 years.
She mentioned that the only similar case was that of Dip Chand, who was convicted in 2006 for the murder of three sisters, whose bodies were never discovered.
She also called for a mandatory life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 to 50 years imprisonment.
However, defence lawyer Tobia Ravuniwa expressed concerns over the minimum sentence suggested by the state.
Kapawale is further remanded in custody until sentencing on August 12.
