Justice Aruna Aluthge told Cathy Tuirabe that she “assisted the Prosecution in solving one of the most devastating crimes committed in this jurisdiction.”
She was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for her involvement in the possession of 4.1 tonnes of methamphetamine at a house in Legalega, Nadi.
31 year old Ms Tuirabe was convicted on a single count of possession after she admitted to occupying the Legalega residence with co-accused Ratu Osea, where the methamphetamine was stored.
The Court found she had knowledge of the drugs and intended to possess them, even though her role was limited and directed by others.
“You performed limited functions under the direction of Sakiusa Tuva,” said Justice Aluthge.
“You assisted in repacking the drugs into small, sealed containers and guarded the premises, for which you were paid only $100 to $200. You expected no financial gain other than that.”
The judge placed her offence under the “lesser culpability” category but emphasised the enormity, purity, and street value of the meth consignment.
A starting point of 20 years’ imprisonment was selected. However, the sentence was reduced by five years to account for mitigation and nine months already spent in remand.
Justice Aluthge acknowledged Ms Tuirabe’s difficult circumstances, including poverty and unemployment, which led her to become involved in the operation.
“You decided to join Sakiusa Tuva, your neighbour, to make a living due to extreme poverty. You cooperated with the police and admitted to the offence as soon as you were arrested.”
The Court praised her willingness to testify for the State despite receiving no immunity or inducement and noted that her guilty plea and remorse had helped the prosecution.
“You assisted the Prosecution in solving one of the most devastating crimes committed in this jurisdiction,” Justice Aluthge said.
Ms Tuirabe will serve a non-parole period of 12 years before being eligible for release.