The prosecution intends to consolidate the case of Eroni Kitanamati with that of two police officers.
Mr Kitanamati, 37, a self-employed Suva man, is charged with unlawful Importation of 4.7 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine.
Prosecutor Eoghn Samisoni explained to Chief Magistrate Josaia Waqaivolavola yesterday Mr Kitanamati’s case was initially called before Magistrate Charles Ratakele.
However, Mr Ratakele declared a conflict of interest since he was a close relative of Mr Kitanamati, and consequently, recused himself.
Mr Kitanamati faces a count of unlawful importation of illicit drugs, which allegedly occurred between September 11 and 12 this year.
Magistrate Ratakele is also presiding over the case of two police officers facing charges similar to that of Mr Kitanamati, which the state plans to consolidate.
Mr Samisoni maintained his objection to bail for Mr Kitanamati, whose lawyer, Jioji Cakau, has yet to file a formal bail application.
As a result, Mr Kitanamati was further remanded in custody, and the case adjourned to October 13 before Mr Waqaivolavola.
