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\par At Suva
\par Civil Jurisdiction
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par CIVIL ACTION NO. 316 OF 1991
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 IN THE MATTER of SCOTTS HOTELS LTD.}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167\charrsid9268167 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 claiming an Innkeepers Lien over one motor vehicle}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167\charrsid9268167 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 being a Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167\charrsid9268167  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 registered No. G 386 VYE}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167\charrsid9268167 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Chassis No. LHAMM3GA420972
\par 
\par - and -
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 IN THE MATTER}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of the purported seizure of the said Range Rover}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167\charrsid9268167 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 registered No. G 386 VYE by the Fiji}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167\charrsid9268167  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Police
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\par Mr. M. Raza for the Scotts Hotels Limited
\par Mr. A. Cope for the Commissioner of Police
\par Mr. J. Flower for Forward Trust Limited
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx3969\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 JUDGMENT
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\par On the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  1st of July 1991}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotels Ltd.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 issued an originating summons seeking several orders in respect of a }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 vehicle which was seized from its hotel premises at 16 Bau Street, Flagstaff by members of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Fiji Police Force}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  acting under a search warrant issued on the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  17th of April 1991}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
More particularly, the plaintiff company seeks an order}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (in the nature of a declaration)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 : 
\par 
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\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 THAT the Applicant Company has a valid Innkeepers Lien over the said Range Rover}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  ..."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
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\par The claim is a rather novel one and necessitates an examination of the law relating to }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Liens}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  and more particularly that of }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Innkeepers}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .
\par 
\par It is common ground that there is no relevant legislation in this country dealing with the subject matter of Innkeepers and accordingly resort must be had to the law of England as applied to Fiji by virtue of }{
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\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
"The common law, the rules of equity and the statutes of general application which were in force in England ... on the 2nd day of January, 1875, shall be in force within Fiji ..."}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par In this latter regard the only rel}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 ev}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
ant English statute of general application in force in 1875 was the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Innkeepers Liability Act 1863}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (hereafter referred to as the }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 1863 Act'}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 )}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  which sought to impose restrictions on an innkeepers general liability for the goods and property of any guest brought to his inn.}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 The law relating to innkeepers was and still is largely a matter of common law.
\par 
\par There are however 2 definitions in }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Section 4 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 of the }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 1863 Act'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  which bears repeating.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{
\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Firstly}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 , an }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "inn" }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 is defined as }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 any hotel, inn, tavern, public house or other place of refreshment ...'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 ; and }{\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 secondly}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 , the word }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "innkeeper"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  is circularly defined as }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 the keeper of any such place'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .
\par 
\par It is also worth noting that the limitation of liability imposed in the }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 1863 Act'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of an innkeeper for a guest's goods or property did not extend to cover amongst other things, }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "... any carriage"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 This latter term although not defined in the }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 1863 Act'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  is clearly contemplated by the }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 1863 Act'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  and is capable of and in my view does include a }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 motor vehicle'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  which is defined}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (inclusively)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  in our }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Traffic Act}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (Cap. 176)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  as}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 
:}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
"A contrivance that is equipped with wheels upon which it moves propelled by mechanical power and constructed for use on roads."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par It is beyond argument that the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotel}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  is by definition an }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "inn"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Furthermore although the definition of an }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "innkeeper"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  appears to contemplate a natural person there is no compelling reason to doubt that a corporate entity operating an }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "inn"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  through its employees may also qualify as one.}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 (}{\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 See}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Para 1206}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  Vol.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1719477  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 24 }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Halsbury Laws of England}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (4th edition.)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par 
\par Having thus dealt with the applicable statutory provisions governing this application I turn next to examine the common law characteristics of an }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Innkeepers lien'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .
\par 
\par In }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Mulliner v. Florence}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 (1878) 3 Q.B.D. 484 where the properties concerned were horses, carriages and harnesses, the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  English Court of Appeal}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  considered the question of the nature and extent of an }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 innkeepers lien'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  and answered it in terms 
that are correctly summarised in the headnote which reads}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
"The lien of an innkeeper is general, and extends to all goods and chattels belonging to his guest and therefore a chattel, although deposited with the innkeeper and placed by him apart from the 
personal goods of the guest, may be detained by him on account of money owing to him for the lodging food and entertainment of the guest."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par The relevant question however that is raised in the context of this present case is}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "What if the goods or chattels do not }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1719477 belong' to the guest}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 ?"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Halsbury}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1719477 '}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 s Laws of England}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (Vol.}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid1719477  }{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 24)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 (4th edtn) provides the following relevant answer at }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 para 1248}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
"The Innkeepers lien extends to all the goods ... which the guest brings with him, even though they do not in fact belong 
to the guest, and are brought without the owner's knowledge, or have been stolen or otherwise wrongfully obtained, provided the hotel proprietor was ignorant of the fact when he received them.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 The hotel proprietor can assert his lien against the true owner as well as against the guest.
}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
Consequently hired goods brought with him by the guest and received by the hotel proprietor are also subject to the lien."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par In }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Chesham Automobile (Limited) v. Beresford Hotel (Birchington) (Limited}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
) (1913) 29 T.L.R. 584}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 , the 
car, which was the plaintiff's property but which had been lent to a hotel guest under a hiring agreement, was brought by the guest to the defendant's hotel and was continuously kept}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (when not used by him)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  in the hotel garage during the course of 3 months 
that the guest stayed at the defendant's hotel until his departure leaving the car and an unpaid hotel bill.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 On the plaintiff's action for the return of the car the defendant hotel set up a}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 lien}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  on the car for the guests unpaid hotel bill.
\par 
\par On the above facts }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Mr. Justice Rush}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 held that the defendants were and are entitled to assert their}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  lien}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 for the expenses incurred by the guest in respect of food and accommodation and the cost of keeping his goods but did not extend to sums lent to, or disbursed for him.
\par 
\par Furthermore in }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Marsh v. Commissioner of Police and Anor}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (1944) 1 K.B.43 }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 in which the item of property over which the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  }{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 innkeeper's lien'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  was asserted was a ring}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 which the hotel guest was later convicted of stealing and which was seized by the police as an exhibit.}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 In competing claims by the hotel company}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (which knew nothing of the stolen nature of the ring)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  and the jewellers}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (from whom the ring was stolen)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
, against the Commissioner of Police for the return of the ring it was }{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 held}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
that the innkeepers lien attached to the ring}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 '.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Lord Goddard}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  in delivering the judgment of the Court of Appeal said at }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 p.45}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (ibid)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :
}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
"It has not been contested - and the authorities seem to be perfectly clear and uniform on the point - that an innkeeper's lien will attach to property brought by a guest to the hotel although the property has been stolen."}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par So much then for the law.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
I turn next to consider the evidence in this application which is derived exclusively from affidavits filed by the following persons}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 (1)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3368103  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Affidavit of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
Peter Bott,}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  Managing Director}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotels Ltd.}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (in liquidation)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  dated}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  12th June 1991}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 ;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1719477 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 (2)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3368103  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Affidavit dated}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  21st October 1991}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Lepani Moceleka}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 ,}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  Deputy Superintendent}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 , in the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Fiji Police Force}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  responsible for the conduct of criminal investigations i
nto the circumstances surrounding the importation of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  into Fiji;

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1719477 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 (3)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3368103  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Affidavit dated the}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  23rd December, 1991}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 David Paul Cannon}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 ,}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  Police Officer}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 , in the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 London Metropolitan Police}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  in charge of criminal investigations in which one }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Celina Tomic-Brown}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  was charged and convicted}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  inter alia}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of stealing the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  in question;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1719477 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 (4)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3368103  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Supplementary affidavit of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Peter Bott}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  dated}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  14th January 1992}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 ; 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1719477 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 (5)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3368103  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Affidavit dated}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  29th May 1991}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  filed on the 16th of January 1992 of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Bryan Leitch}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 ,}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  Senior Manager, Risk}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Forward Trust Limited}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 a company registered in the United Kingdom which claims ownership of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 ; and finally
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 (6)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3368103  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 A }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 statement'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  dated}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  15th April 1992}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Robert Nicol}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  a principal in the firm of the same name who act as recovery agents 
for }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Forward Trust Limited}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 and who deposed to various meetings and conversations he had with }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Peter Bott }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
in January 1991 concerning the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par This latter 3 page }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 statement'}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (for want of a neutral description)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Robert Nicol}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  purports to be }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "subscribed and sworn"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  before an unverified German notary on the}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  15th April 1992}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 was filed in this Court on the 30th of April 1992 several seeks after written submissions had been filed and 3 months after the time given for the filing of affidavits had expired.
\par 
\par The }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 statement}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
, if believed, fundamentally undermines the entire claim presently before the Court and in particular, }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Peter Bott's}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  assertion in his supplementary affidavit of}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  14th January 1992}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  that}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "2.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3368103  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 At all relevant times (he) did not have any knowledge of 
Cesare D'ayala aka Ildebrand de Franco's background nor was (he) aware of any other claims in respect of the said Range Rover}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  G 386 VYE."}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par Not surprisingly perhaps learned counsel for }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotel}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  objects to the }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 late filing'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  and improper form of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 statement'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  which is described in counsel's submissions as }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "totally misleading"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  and }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "strongly denied"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .
\par 
\par I accept as well-founded both grounds of objection raised by learned counsel for }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotel.}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }
{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 In the absence of an appropriate application for leave to file and use the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 statement'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 and mindful of the critical nature of its contents, I have decided to place no reliance upon it in the determination of this application.
\par 
\par The facts in this case in so far as they relate to the asserted lien are not seriously challenged and may be briefly summarised as follows - In early}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  December 1990}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  an Italian national by the name of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Ildebrand de Franco}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (hereafter referred to as }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 de Franco'}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 )}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  was accepted as a guest at the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotel}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
He brought with him to the hotel his pet dog a golden labrador and a }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 vehicle bearing a foreign number plate }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 G 386 VYE}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 of which he claimed to be the owner.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 de Franco}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  stayed at the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotel}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  for about 7 weeks and left on or about the}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  22nd of January 1991}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  leaving an unpaid hotel bill.}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 He also left his dog and the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  on the hotel premises.
\par 
\par On the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  19th of April 1991}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  was}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  "forcibly removed"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 from the hotel premises by police officers acting under the authority of a search warrant and since then has been detained in police custody.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 No charges have been laid against anyone in respect of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  nor does it appear likely at this stage.
\par 
\par I am satisfied from the evidence that }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotel Ltd}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 . is}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  prima facie}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  entitled to assert an }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 innkeepers lien'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  over the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  and I so declare.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 The fact that it no longer has possession of the vehicle does not in my view affect its }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 lien'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 having regard to the circumstances under which the vehicle was removed from the hotel premises.
\par 
\par Equally I am satisfied that the police were entitled to seize the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 pending criminal investigations.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
The status of such investigations however has not been disclosed in any of the affidavits as might be expected and the undisputed absence of the primary suspect }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 de Franco'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  from the countr
y renders any possible criminal charges extremely unlikely.
\par 
\par For the sake of completeness it should be pointed out that this Court has before it various affidavits filed by the solicitors acting on behalf of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Forward Trust Ltd }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 seeking to establish that the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  legally belongs to it and/or is regarded as stolen property in the U.K.
\par 
\par In the absence however of any submissions from counsel for }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Forward Trust Limited}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (who appeared throughout these proceedings)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 I do not consider that either factor is determinative of the issues raised in this application nor does this Court's order against }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9268167 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 de Franco'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  in }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Civil Action 317 of 1990}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  advance the matter any further.
\par 
\par In the result the continued retention of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
 by the police can no longer be considered justified and accordingly pursuant to }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Section 106(3)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Criminal Procedure Code}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (Cap. 21)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  I direct that the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  registered number}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  G 386 VYE}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  be,}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (in the words of the subsection)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 "... restored to the person from whom it was taken"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 , namely, }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotels Ltd}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 . or its authorised representative.
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 In so directing this Court must not be taken to have accepted in any way the precise items }{
\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 or}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  quantum of the account furnished by }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Scotts Hotel}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  in support of its claim }{
\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 nor}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  has it been necessary in these present proceedings to determine the rights}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  (if any)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  of }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Forward Trust Ltd.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167  to maintain an action for the recovery of the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 Range Rover}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 .
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx3969\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 (D.V. Fatiaki)
\par }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 JUDGE}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9268167 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 
\par At Suva,
\par 11th September, 1992.
\par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3368103 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid3368103 HBC0316J.91S}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid16282175\charrsid9268167 

\par }}