The High Court in Labasa has sentenced 41-year-old fisherman to 15 years’ imprisonment for sexually assaulting and raping his 13-year-old neighbour and relative between December 2022 and February 2023.
He was convicted on 6 March 2026 after a trial on three counts — two of indecent assault and one of rape — under the Crimes Act 2009.
Justice Lee Burney delivered the sentence on 20 March 2026, setting a non-parole period of nine years and nine months, less time spent on remand.
The court heard that the offences occurred in the victim’s home while her parents were away. The judge noted that Nawai, who was a trusted uncle and neighbour, abused this position to target the child repeatedly.
A victim impact report revealed that the girl continues to suffer from psychological trauma, anxiety, and fear since the assaults.
Justice [name omitted] said the offending was “calculating and cunning” and warranted a strong message of denunciation and deterrence. Nawai, who has no prior convictions, was represented by the Legal Aid Commission. He has 30 days to appeal the sentence.
