{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\uc1\deff0\stshfdbch0\stshfloch0\stshfhich0\stshfbi0\deflang1033\deflangfe1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 02020603050405020304}Times New Roman;}{\f1\fswiss\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 020b0604020202020204}Arial;}
{\f171\froman\fcharset238\fprq2 Times New Roman CE;}{\f172\froman\fcharset204\fprq2 Times New Roman Cyr;}{\f174\froman\fcharset161\fprq2 Times New Roman Greek;}{\f175\froman\fcharset162\fprq2 Times New Roman Tur;}
{\f176\froman\fcharset177\fprq2 Times New Roman (Hebrew);}{\f177\froman\fcharset178\fprq2 Times New Roman (Arabic);}{\f178\froman\fcharset186\fprq2 Times New Roman Baltic;}{\f179\froman\fcharset163\fprq2 Times New Roman (Vietnamese);}
{\f181\fswiss\fcharset238\fprq2 Arial CE;}{\f182\fswiss\fcharset204\fprq2 Arial Cyr;}{\f184\fswiss\fcharset161\fprq2 Arial Greek;}{\f185\fswiss\fcharset162\fprq2 Arial Tur;}{\f186\fswiss\fcharset177\fprq2 Arial (Hebrew);}
{\f187\fswiss\fcharset178\fprq2 Arial (Arabic);}{\f188\fswiss\fcharset186\fprq2 Arial Baltic;}{\f189\fswiss\fcharset163\fprq2 Arial (Vietnamese);}}{\colortbl;\red0\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue255;\red0\green255\blue255;\red0\green255\blue0;
\red255\green0\blue255;\red255\green0\blue0;\red255\green255\blue0;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue128;\red0\green128\blue128;\red0\green128\blue0;\red128\green0\blue128;\red128\green0\blue0;\red128\green128\blue0;\red128\green128\blue128;
\red192\green192\blue192;}{\stylesheet{\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \snext0 Normal;}{
\s1\ql \li0\ri0\keepn\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel0\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext0 heading 1;}{
\s2\qr \li0\ri0\keepn\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel1\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext0 heading 2;}{
\s3\ql \li0\ri0\keepn\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\outlinelevel2\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\f1\fs24\ul\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext0 heading 3;}{\*\cs10 \additive \ssemihidden Default Paragraph Font;}{\*
\ts11\tsrowd\trftsWidthB3\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tscellwidthfts0\tsvertalt\tsbrdrt\tsbrdrl\tsbrdrb\tsbrdrr\tsbrdrdgl\tsbrdrdgr\tsbrdrh\tsbrdrv 
\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\cgrid\langnp1024\langfenp1024 \snext11 \ssemihidden Normal Table;}{\s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext15 header;}{\*\cs16 \additive \sbasedon10 page number;}}{\*\listtable{\list\listtemplateid-955715008
\listsimple{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\'02\'00.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fbias0 \fi-720\li2160\jclisttab\tx2160\lin2160 }{\listname ;}\listid784425642}}
{\*\listoverridetable{\listoverride\listid784425642\listoverridecount0\ls1}}{\*\rsidtbl \rsid143445\rsid6049167\rsid10962534\rsid12214710\rsid12789314}{\*\generator Microsoft Word 10.0.6764;}{\info{\title IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI}{\author user}
{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2005\mo12\dy3\hr17\min53}{\revtim\yr2005\mo12\dy3\hr17\min53}{\printim\yr2004\mo10\dy27\hr14\min28}{\version2}{\edmins1}{\nofpages5}{\nofwords1613}{\nofchars9197}{\*\company  }{\nofcharsws10789}{\vern16391}}
\margr1440\margb720 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\formshade\horzdoc\dghspace180\dgvspace180\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984\dghshow0\dgvshow0
\jexpand\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot10962534 \fet0\sectd \linex0\endnhere\titlepg\sectdefaultcl\sftnbj {\header \pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\pvpara\phmrg\posxc\posy0\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\field{\*\fldinst {\cs16\insrsid12214710 PAGE  }}{\fldrslt {
\cs16\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid12214710 5}}}{\cs16\insrsid12214710 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\insrsid12214710 
\par }}{\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}}
{\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8
\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 
\fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par APPELLATE JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO.: HAA 110 OF 2004
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 BETWEEN:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 QICA TABUA BULAMAIBAU
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 Appellant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 AND:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 STATE
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10962534 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10962534\charrsid10962534 Counsel: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 Mr. R. Tuitoga \endash  for the Appellant
\par Ms K. Bavou \endash  for State
\par 
\par Hearing:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10962534\charrsid10962534  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 28th October, 2004
\par Judgment:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10962534\charrsid10962534  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 26th November, 2004
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 JUDGMENT
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10962534 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par The appellant and two others are charged with one count of robbery with violence on 15th of March, 2000.
\par 
\par The case was eventually heard over the 4th of October 2001, 17th of October 2001, 23rd of October 2001 with a final conclusion on the 18th of August 2003.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par 
\par The Prosecution closed its case on that last date}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445  having called five witnesses.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 Appellant\rquote 
s counsel did not seek to challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 However, nonetheless without receivi
ng that request or any submissions the Court pre-emptorily ruled there was a case to answer and proceeded immediately to offer the appellant his three options detailed by Section 211 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
\par 
\par Appellant\rquote s counsel at that point interjected with his request to make an application challenging the admissibility of the confessional statements.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 He did so upon the procedural}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
basis contained in the Court of Appeal\rquote s decision of}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445  Vinod Kumar v The State}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 ,}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445 No. AAU0024.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 2000.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
\par The Court accepted that challenge and gave counsel 14 days to make his application and offered the Prosecution 14 days to reply.
\par 
\par At the 26th of September the defence had not served their submissions and were granted an extension of time within which to do so.
\par 
\par At the next appearance on the 9th of October, 2003 they had prepared and filed submissions but the Prosecution claimed they hadn\rquote t received them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 A further extension was granted to the 30th of October, 2003; on that date the Prosecution were granted the courtesy of a month within which to reply.
\par 
\par There followed various adjournments through to the 23rd of December, 2003.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
Then the Court, after considering the submissions, read out its ruling in open court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
The essence of the learned Magistrate\rquote s decision is contained at page 48 of the record:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid143445 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 \'93I agree with the prosecutor\rquote s submission that, \'93\'85
..the application by the defence to limit their sworn evidence to the circumstances surrounding the taking of the statement has come too late\'85.the application for a voire dire should have been made by the defence at the conclusion of the prosecution
\rquote s witnesses and before a no case to answer submission and a prima facie ruling was made\'85.\'94 [paragraph 2.2 and 2.3].
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid143445 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 A prima facie case ruling has been made, and the requirements of Section 2
11 of the Criminal Procedure Code has been explained to the accused.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 The time for \'93trial within a trial\'94
 has long expired, when the Court found a prima facie case against the accused.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
The defence should have made their application before then.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid143445 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 If the defe
nce wishes to give a sworn statement in their defence, they are entitled to bring in evidence that challenge the voluntaryness of any confession.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 They may also bring in evidence that generally advance their defence.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 They will be cross-examined on the above matters, if the prosecution wishes to exercise its right to cross-examine.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid143445 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
Given the above, I dismiss the defence application, and I now call on them to exercise one of the options given to them, as required by Section 211 of the Criminal Procedure Code.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid143445 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 
\par I have detailed the history fully leading down to this ruling as that is the subject of this appeal against conviction.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid143445  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid143445 I am obliged to both counsel for their helpful and comprehensive written submissions.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Appellant\rquote s Case
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 The appellant\rquote s case is summed up within one passage of the Court of Appeal\rquote s Judgment in }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Kumar}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314  (supra).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 The Court of Appeal said at page 2:

\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 \'93
After all witnesses for the prosecution have been called the defendant is to be given the opportunity to give evidence if he wishes exclusively on the taking of the caution statements.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 He can then be examined and cross-examined only on matters concerning the taking of the statement.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
The defendant may also call witnesses to give evidence before the Court exclusively on the taking of the caution statement.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 This procedure contains an important safeguard for an accused person.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 An accused may give evidence as to the admissibility of the statement without losing the right to make an unsworn statement from the dock or to decline to give evidence in the
 case generally\'94.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par The appellant concedes that no verbal objection was taken to the confessional statement when it was tendered.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
However, equally it is clear through the passage of cross-examination of the principal witnesses that the accused was alleging the confession was beaten out of him.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par 
\par I should observe from the record it appears as if the technical aspects of the court\rquote s procedures at the close of the prosecution case occurred over a matter of seconds (cf page 43 and 44 of the record).}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 As such the niceties of placement of defence counsel\rquote s \'93Kumar\'94
 interjection cannot be seen as counsel resting on his laurels}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 and forgetting to take objection.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Further I infer he wanted to take objections immediately but as a matter of courtesy awaited the Court\rquote 
s pronouncements before rising to its feet to take the point.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Respondent\rquote s Reply
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 The respondent contends that while it accepts the impact of the }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Kumar}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314  decision the application by the defence was made too late.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 The State claims that by failing to rise to its feet a matter seconds before the Court\rquote s pronouncement of a prima facie case the defence should be denied a Kumar hearing.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
As a matter of preference the State indicates that the appropriate time to have made the application would be before the caution interv
iew was tendered in evidence and certainly before the Prosecution closed its case and a ruling given on a prima facie case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Decision
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 From the outset of this prosecution it was clear that this appellant challenged the admissibility of his confessional statement.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
At the first call of the matter on the 15th of March, 2000 the Chief Magistrate noted (page 6 of the record) that all three had complained of injuries and required medical examination.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Violence and force were the subject of examinations from both the Prosecution and the Defence of the Interviewing Officer.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
Accordingly, I find that the appellant and his counsel had always intended to challenge the admissibility of the confessional statement.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Kumar}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314  (supra) makes it clear that after all the witnesses
 for the prosecution have been called the defendant must be given the opportunity to give evidence, if he wishes, exclusively on the taking of caution statements.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 This then allows him the right to be examined and cross-examined only on those matters withou
t prejudicing his right to make an unsworn statement from the dock or to decline to give evidence on the case generally.
\par 
\par In circumstances where it is clear that the prime defence is a challenge to the admissibility of a confessional statement the courts must in my view be vigilant to make sure that this option is put to an accused at the close of the prosecution case.

\par 
\par The learned Magistrate did not take that precaution here.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
Rather at the close of the prosecution case without the request of either counsel he went on to find a prima facie case and then chant the Section 211 Procedures.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 I can well imagine defence counsel as a matter of courtesy let the learned Magistrate complete what he was saying before immediately taking the }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Kumar}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314  objection.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 That is how the record on page 43 and 44 reads.
\par 
\par In future defence counsel would be well advised to ensure they go on the record early with their instructions to challenge the admissibility of confessional statements.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 However, on this occasion I am satisfied that it was clear to all involved that such a challenge was to be mounted.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 I am fortified in that view by the fact that the learned Magistrate entertained the application and asked counsel to file written submissions to address the matter.
\par 
\par I also disagree with the learned Magistrate\rquote s ruling and the submission of State\rquote s counsel.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
In my view this application was not brought too late.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
There was no deliberate avoidance of objection to gain some defence advantage.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
I find as a matter of fact that counsel was simply displaying courtesy to the Court by not interrupting the learned Magistrate as he addressed procedures during the period immediately after the prosecution announced it had closed its case.
\par 
\par If defence counsel had waited longer than the few seconds it apparently took for them to raise the objection then my view may have been different.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 However, I am satisfied that on this occasion the challenge was properly brought and the substantive issue of whether or not the confession was voluntary needs to be addressed.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Conclusion
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
I grant the appeal, overturn the ruling but only in so far as enabling the learned Magistrate to now consider whether or not the confessional statement was voluntary based on the evidence recorded to date.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 I vacate the Prosecutions advancement of \'93closing its case\'94 and the finding on a prima facie case to answer.}
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 The hearing on the admissibility of the subject statement may now proceed in the usual fashion.
\par 
\par After the learned Magistrate has made that finding the defence should then be put to its formal election under Section 211 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Addendum
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 It was apparent as a result of this appeal that there is still some confusion co}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 ncerning the management of voir}
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314  dire applications during hearings in the Magistrates Court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 A practice note issued by the Chief Justice referred to in Kumar still applies.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 I note it may be wise to adopt the following practical approach to Kumar applications: 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10962534 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314 1.\tab }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
Defence counsel or accused seeking to challenge the admissibility of confessional statements or other evidence in Magistrates Court\rquote 
s hearings should advise the State or police about the nature of the challenge at least 14 days before commencement of the hearing.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314 2.\tab }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
Counsel for the defence or the accused must take an objection to the production of any evidence at the time it is tendered requesting that it simply be marked for identification purposes only.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 3.\tab }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 When the Prosecution indicates it has called its last witness and before closing its case defence counsel or the accused should indicate they wish to proceed with the }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Kumar}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314  application.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 The application should then be heard.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
If granted the Court should then hear evidence about the admissibility of the exhibit marked for identification.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
The accused can be given his rights to make a statement or give evidence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid143445\charrsid12789314  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
If the accused elects to give evidence cross-examination is limited as defined in }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Kumar}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 .}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 4.\tab }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 The Court can rule whether or not it will admit the intended evidence.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12789314\charrsid12789314 5.\tab }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 The Prosecution can then close its case.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid10962534 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 6.\tab Section 211 procedures can follow.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 Gerard Winter
\par JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12789314 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6049167\charrsid12789314 
\par At Suva
\par 26th November, 2004
\par }}