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Lalauvaki was allegedly kicked and stomped, 2nd state witness reveals

October 15, 2019 5:06 pm

[Left] late Josua Lalauvaki [Right] Kolinisau and Tikoenaburevere

26-year-old local rugby player, Josua Lalauvaki was allegedly assaulted and stomped by a police officer in the early hours of the 2nd of September last year.

The second state witness revealed this in the Suva High court this afternoon as the trial of two former police officers Kelepi Kolinisau and Selema Tikoenaburevere continued today.

Kolinisau and Tikoenaburevere are each charged with one count of murder.

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It is alleged that they murdered Lalauvaki following an assault outside a nightclub in Suva on September 2nd last year.

Lalauvaki died at the CWM hospital a month later as a result of injuries allegedly sustained in the assault.

The second state witness, 26-year-old Alifereti Gade took the stand and testified of what conspired on that night.

Gade was part of a police team called the “polteam” and was assisting them by providing information.

He said that on 2nd September he was out on patrol when he met Kolinisau and Tikoenaburevere.

They were called in to assist with a matter outside a nightclub at Carnavon Street in Suva.

He said when they reached there, Lalauvaki and a police officer were exchanging words.

Gade said Lalauvaki, his girlfriend and two other people were escorted to the Totogo Police station in a police vehicle.

He said on their way to the police station, Lalauvaki and his friend allegedly started attacking Kolinisau.

Lalauvaki and his friend were then handcuffed and taken to the police station.

Gade said that at the police station, Tikoenaburevere took Lalauvaki ou of the vehicle while his friend was escorted to the charge room.

He said while at the carpark at the police station, Tikoenaburevere and Lalauvaki were punching each other.

He testified that Kolinisau than kicked and stomped Lalauvaki on his stomach and kicked his hip when he was on the ground.

Gade said he was five footsteps away from where the alleged incident occurred and nothing obstructed his view during those exchanges.

The defense is currently cross-examining the witness.