High Court judge Justice Aruna Aluthge sentenced Ratu Aporosa Dsvelevu to 14 years’ imprisonment for his role in transporting 4.2 tonnes of methamphetamine, describing the case as part of a “large-scale transnational drug operation.”
He was convicted on a single count of possession and transfer of the meth consignment from Denarau to Motorex, and was proven to have acted with full knowledge and intent, despite playing a limited role.
“It was proved that you drove the truck with knowledge, and you had the intention to possess the methamphetamine consignment you transported,” said Justice Aluthge.
“You performed a limited function under direction, which I put under a lesser culpability level.”
The Court noted that Ratu Aporosa, 45, was paid only $200, had no previous convictions, and was the sole breadwinner for his family.
He had lived in Australia before returning to Fiji and had planned to go back, plans now derailed by what the judge called a “tragically ill-advised decision.”
“Offenders whose role falls into the lesser culpability category should get comparatively lenient sentences.”
Taking into account Ratu Aporosa’s limited role, lack of prior convictions, and seven months spent on remand, the Court applied a four-year reduction to an initial 18-year starting point.
“To balance your rehabilitation potential with other sentencing purposes, especially deterrence, I impose a non-parole period of 12 years.”