Court

Second murder accused in Lalauvaki’s case takes stand

October 23, 2019 4:55 pm

The second accused alleged to have murdered 26-year-old local rugby player, Josua Lalauvaki said he was shocked.

29-year-old former police officer Selema Tikoenaburevere explained to court his reaction when he saw Lalauvaki fall to the ground at the Totogo Police Station last year.

He gave evidence about what transpired on 2nd September last year.

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Tikoenaburevere is facing a murder charge along with Kelepi Kolinisau.

Both are alleged to have assaulted Lalauvaki who died a month later at the Suva’s CWM hospital as a result of injuries he sustained from the alleged assault.

Tikoenaburevere who had been in the police force for four years up until the time he was charged with a count of murder says he was on duty to keep an eye on drug-related issues on the 2nd of September.

He says they were called in to assist their officers to control four drunkards who were being drunk and disorderly at a nightclub on Carnarvon Street.

He said the four were escorted to the Totogo Police station and while being escorted they were swearing.

Tikoenaburevere said at the police station, his co-accused assisted one of the male drunkard Tomasi to the charge room while he assisted Lalauvaki.

He said while on their way to the charge room, Tomasi turned all of a sudden and punched Kolinisau who fell down.

He said while trying to assist Kolinisau he felt someone tap him on his shoulder.

Tikoenaburevere testified as he turned around, Lalauvaki punched him on his head.

He said he then got hold of Lalauvaki’s shirt and told him that he should show respect as they were at a police station.

He said as he turned to check up on Kolinisau, he saw his senior officer, ASP Rusiate Ryland in between them.

He added that he then felt something go down to the ground and when he looked down, he saw Lalauvaki.

He said he was shocked however he lifted Lalauvaki and put him up on his knees.

Tikoenaburevere said he then took Lalauvaki into the charge room.

The trial continues.