The charges for the two Australian nationals who are alleged to have been involved in the unlawful importation of illicit drugs and ammunition on their Yacht Serendipity in Denarau, Nadi have been consolidated.

The Australian couple Yvette Nikolic and John Nikolic were charged after drugs, arms and ammunition were found on a yacht at Port Denerau Marina, Nadi on 22 June 2018.

The couple are jointly charged with one count of possession of illicit drugs and one count of failure to declare arms and ammunition to a custom officer while John Nikolic is additionally charged with one count of unlawful importation of illicit drugs.

It is alleged that John Nikolic imported 12.9 kilograms of cocaine and the couple had in their possession 34.4 grams of methamphetamine and cocaine tablets with an estimated value of between $20 to $30 million.

It’s also alleged that they failed to declare, that they had in their possession one 9 millimetre Smith and Wesson pistol with 62 rounds of ammunition and one revolver with 41 rounds of ammunition.

Defence lawyer, Ronald Gordon has accepted the consolidated informing the court that his clients have asked for an early hearing date.

He says that this is because Yvette is currently studying in Australia and if she misses out on her classes she will not receive her Degree.

Lautoka High Court Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge says that his diary is full until November next year.

Gordon then asked if another judge could preside over the hearing.

Justice Aluthge says he will review the matter and the availability of the judges.
The case will be called again next Tuesday where the two are expected to take their plea.