Fiji’s Magistrates Court in Sigatoka Thursday granted bail to Minister for Fisheries and Forests Kalaveti Ravu who is charged with one count of Abuse of Office.
Ravu is charged alongside Ministry of Fisheries and Forests Regional Manager, Tekata Toaisi who faces a one count of aiding and abetting abuse of office.
Both appeared before Resident Magistrate Jeremaia Savou.
It is alleged that between 25 July 2023 and 31 August 2023, Ravu interfered in the lawful process of a Ministry of Fisheries and Forests investigation into the illegal trade of banned species of beche-de-mer.
The Court was also informed that the second accused, whilst employed with the Fisheries and Forests Ministry aided and abetted the Minister in committing the offence of abuse of office.
FICAC senior counsel, Laite Bokini-Ratu informed the Court that the first phase of disclosures has been served.
Magistrate Savou granted a cash bail bond of $1000 (US$5000) to Minister Ravu, while Toaisi has also been granted a non-cash bail bond of $1000 (US$500).
A Stop Departure Order has been issued against both and they have been ordered by the Court to report to the Nabua and Lami Police Station respectively on the last Saturday of every month commencing from 27 July 2024.
The matter has been adjourned to 29 July 2024.
