Court

No backup of CCTV of alleged assault involving Lalauvaki: Witness testifies

October 17, 2019 12:45 pm

Late Josua Lalauvaki

There was no backup of the CCTV footage of the incident on September 2nd, 2018 where 26-year-old local rugby player Josua Lalauvaki was allegedly assaulted and stomped by police officers.

Sergeant Pradip Lal, who was on duty at the Totogo police station that day continued giving evidence today as the murder trial of two former officers continues.

Former police officers Kelepi Kolinisau and Selema Tikoenaburevere are charged with murder.

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It is alleged that the pair caused the eventual death of Lalauvaki because of the alleged assault in Suva on September 2nd last year.

Lalauvaki died at CWM hospital a month later as a result of injuries.

Lal said he was not aware that Lalauvaki was taken to the hospital following the alleged assault.

He said when he came to work on 5th September last year, he was informed by some officers that a man was admitted at the CWM hospital.

Lal testified when he went to the hospital he found out that it was Lalauvaki.

In cross-examination, he said that he did not report what had conspired on the 2nd of September as his senior officer had told him that he was dealing with the situation.

He said he didn’t review the CCTV footage, nor instruct anyone else to do so.

Lal said he was informed by the technicians that the CCTV footage was erased from the system after 1 month.

He also denied that he is trying to cover up the dereliction of his duty in not reporting the crime.

The trial continues before the High court.