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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par CIVIL JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 CIVIL ACTION NO. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051 HBC0}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 276 OF 2003
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Between:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 ERONI BAINIVALU
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Plaintiff
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 FIJI POLICE FORCE
\par REPUBLIC OF FIJI MILITARY FORCES
\par ATTORNEY GENERAL OF FIJI
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Defendants}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051\charrsid1068051 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Mr. D. Prasad for the Plaintiff
\par Mrs. C. Ligaiula for the 2nd Defendant
\par Mr. L. Daunivalu for 1st and 3rd Defendants}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051\charrsid1068051 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 DECISION}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 In this action }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Eroni Bainivalu}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 (the \'93}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Plaintiff}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'94) issued a writ of summons against 
}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Fiji Police Force}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  (the \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 first}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 defendant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \rquote ), }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Royal Military Forces}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  (the \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 second defendant}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \rquote ) and the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Attorney-General of Fiji}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 (the \lquote }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 third defendant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \rquote 
) claiming, inter alia, special and general damages against the defendants as more particularly stated in the Statement of Claim filed herein.
\par 
\par The first and third defendants filed Statement of Defence on 12 August 2003.
\par 
\par There are }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 two applications}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  before me.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 One is from the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 second defendant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
 filed on 4 August 2003 seeking an order that the plaintiff\rquote s Statement of Claim be struck out on the ground that it discloses no reasonable cause of action supported by an Affidavit.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 The plaintiff filed a reply to this by affidavit.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
The second and similar application including the ground that the plaintiff\rquote s action is scandalous, frivolous and vexatious was filed on 14 October 2003 by the first and third defendants supported by an affidavit.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 To this the plaintiff replied by affidavit on 11 November 2003.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 The 1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 st}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  and 3}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 rd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  defendants also filed an affidavit in Reply on 28 November 2003.
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 As ordered all the parties 
filed written submissions, the last of the submissions was made on 15 January 2004.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Determination of the issue
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par The applications are made under }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Or 18 r 18 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
High Court Rules 1988}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 .
\par 
\par In dealing with this issue, I bear in mind the following passage from }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Halsbury\rquote s 4}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 th}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  Ed. Vol. 3 at para 435}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'93
The power to strike out, stay or dismiss under the inherent jurisdiction is discretionary.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
It is a jurisdiction, which will be exercised with great circumspection and only where it is perfectly clear that the plea cannot succeed, it ought to be exercised sparingly and only in exceptional cases.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 However, for this purpose the court is entitled to inquire into all the circumstances of the case, and to
 this end affidavit evidence is admissible}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 .}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 (my emphasis)
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par In this case the plaintiff is seeking damages for injuries sustained by him while he was kept hostage at Korovou town by the rebels during the height of 2000 coup.
\par 
\par The plaintiff claims negligence on the part of D1 and D2 in that they failed to take steps to protect the plaintiff and also failed to provide a safe place of work.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 He further says that the defendants ought to have known about the risk that were being faced by the Police Officers at Korovou Police Station.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051 
 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 The plaintiff has set out particulars of negligence in his Statement of Claim.
\par 
\par The }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 issue}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  for Court\rquote s determination is whether the defendants owed a }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 duty of care}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  to provide security to the plaintiff and secure his release from the hostage-takers.
\par 
\par There has to be a trial of the action to ascertain the facts and to determine if there was a duty of care.
\par 
\par In response to the plaintiff\rquote s affidavit, the D1 and D3 stated, inter alia, that D2 had dispatched a number of their officers to provide reinforcement to the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 security forces already at Korovou Town.
\par 
\par The defendants say that the injuries to the plaintiff were not caused by them but by some persons led by Varinava Tiko who took over the Korovou Police Station where the plaintiff was stationed.
\par 
\par They say that they are not liable for the wrongful acts of an unrelated and largely unidentifiable third party who caused injury to the plaintiff.
\par 
\par Therefore, they say that there is no cause of action against the defendants and }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 also}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
 the action is scandalous, frivolous and vexatious.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051 
\par 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 The defendants say that the main issue for determination is whether the defendants are liable or can be held responsible for the injuries and loss suffered by the plaintiff.
\par 
\par This statement in itself is sufficient to indicate that there has to be a trial of the action to determine the issue.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
It will of course be for the plaintiff to prove his case on the civil standard of proof.
\par 
\par In the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Notes }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Or 18 r.19}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  in the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Supreme Court Practice 1979 Vol.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  at 312 that:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \lquote }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
it is only in plain and obvious cases that recourse should be had to the summary process under this Rule\rquote  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 and that \lquote }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 it can only be adopted when it can be clearly seen that a claim or answer is on the face of it obviously unsustainable}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\rquote  [}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 AG of Duchy of Lancaster v. L. & N.W. Ry. Co}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  [1982] 3 Ch 274, C.A.]
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par This statement I find is applicable to the facts of this case, that is, it is not a plain and obvious case of dealing summarily with it.
\par 
\par Further in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Carl Zeiss Stiftung v Rayner and Keeler Ltd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  (No. 3) [1970] Ch 506 it is stated that:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \lquote }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
The power to strike out any pleading or any part of pleading under this rule is not mandatory, but permissive, and so confers a discretionary jurisdiction to be exercised having regard to th
e quality and all the circumstances relating to the offending plea\rquote .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par Also, in the context of this case I find the following statement of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Megarry V.C.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  in }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Gleeson v J. Wippell & Co.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  [1977] 1 W.L.R. 510 at 518 apt:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'93}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
First, there is the well settled requirem
ent that the jurisdiction to strike out an endorsement or pleading, whether under the rules or under the inherent jurisdiction, should be exercised with great caution only in plain and obvious cases that are clear beyond doubt.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Second, Zeiss No. 3 [1970] C
h. 506 established that, as had previously been assumed, the jurisdiction under the rules is discretionary; even if the matter is or may be res judicata, it may be better not to strike out the pleadings but to leave the matter to be resolved at the trial}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'94.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par The defendants say that there is no reasonable cause of action but on the evidence before me I hold that there is and in coming to this conclusion I have borne in mind following passage from }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Notes}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  to }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Or 18 r 19/11 }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 of the }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Supreme Court Practice (U.K.) 1979 Vol. 1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
 where it is stated:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'93}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'85\'85
A reasonable cause of action means a cause with some chance of success when only the allegations in the pleadings are considered (per Lord Pearson in }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
Drummond Jackson v British Medical Association}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  [1970] 1 WLR, 688; [1970] 1 All E.R 1094, C.A.).}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 So long as the statement of claim or the particulars (}{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Davey v Bentinck}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  [1893] 1 Q.B. 185) disclose some cause of action, or raise some question fit to be decided by a Judge or a jury, the mere fact that the case is weak, and not like
ly to succeed is no ground for striking it out (}{\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Moore v Lawson}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 ) (1915) 31 T.L.R. 418, C.A.; }{
\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Wenlock v Moloney}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  [1965] 1 W.L.R. 1238 [1965] 2 All E.R 871, C.A.)\'85\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par Similarly, on this subject }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Lindley M.R.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
Hubbuck & Sons, Ltd v Wilkinson, Heywood & Clark Limited }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 [1899] 1 Q.B. 86 at page 91 said:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'93\'85
summary procedure is only appropriate to cases which are plain and obvious, so that any master or judge can say at once that the statement of claim as it stands in insufficient, even if proved, to entitle the plaintiff to what he asks.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 The use of the expression \'93reasonable cause of action\'94
 in rule 4 shews that the summary procedure there introduced is only intended to be had recourse to in plain and obvious cases\'94.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par In }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Attorney-General v Shiu Prasad Halka }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7800261 [}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 1972}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7800261 ]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  18 FLR 210, FCA }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Marsack J.A.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  said:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'93}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'85
 I think it is definitely established that the jurisdiction to strike out proceedings under Order 18 rule 19 should be very sparingly exercised where legal questions of importance and difficulty are raised}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \rquote .}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par The defendants have referred to cases which spell out the general duty of care owed by police officers.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 One such case is }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Hill v Chief Constable of West Yorkshire}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  [1988] A.C 175}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 H.L.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 The other case to which reference was made is }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Osman v Ferguson}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  [1993] 4 All E.R. 345 C.A. whic}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051 h followed Hill\rquote 
s case (supra).}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par In }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Osman}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  it was held (and this the defendants put in argument) that:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b0\i0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'93
However (per curiam), the existence of a general duty on the police to suppress crime did not carry with it liability to individuals for damage caused to them by criminals whom the police had failed to apprehend when it was possible to do so.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
It would be against public policy to impose such a duty as it would not promote the observance of a higher standard of care by the police and would result in the significant diversion of police resources from the investigation and suppression of crime\'94
.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par The defendants\rquote  counsel agree that whilst this case may differ slightly from the factual scenario of the above-quoted authorities, the general principles espoused in those cases would apply equ
ally to this case so far as it relates to the liability of the police.
\par 
\par The defendants also say that the plaintiff\rquote s action is frivolous and vexatious.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
They say that they did whatever was reasonably possible to both}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 pre}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051 
vent and control the situation.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par 
\par It is to be noted that without a trial of the action it will not be possible to decide on who is or are liable for the injuries sustained by the plaintiff.
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Conclusion
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par For the reasons given hereabove, in the exercise of my discretion and on the authorities the defendants\rquote  applications will have to be dismissed.
\par 
\par I conclude with the following words of }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Rooney J}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
Timoci Uluivuda Bavadra v The Attorney General}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051  (Sup. Ct. (now High Court) C.A. No. 487 of 1987 where he said:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'93}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
I am not required to try}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 any issues at this hearing .}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 All I have to decide whether there is an issue to be tried.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
It is not enough for the defendant to show on this application that the plaintiff\rquote s case is weak and unlikely to succeed\'94.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par The following passage from the judgment of Court of Appeal in }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 National MBf Finance (Fiji) Limited v Nemani Buli}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
, (Civil Appeal No. ABU 0057 of 1998) very clearly enunciated and determined the principles of striking out.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
At page 2 of the judgment their Lordships said:-
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li720\ri720\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid1068051 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 \'93
The law with regard to striking out pleadings is not in dispute.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
Apart from truly exceptional cases the approach to such applications is to assume that the factual basis on which the allegations contained in the pleadings are raised will be proved.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 If a legal issue can be raised on t
he facts as pleaded then the courts will not strike out a pleading and will certainly not do so on a contention that the facts cannot be proved unless the situation is so strong that judicial notice can be taken of the falsity of a factual contention\'85
\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Fo
r the above reasons the applications by the defendants are therefore dismissed with costs in the cause.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
The action should now proceed in the normal manner with due diligence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1068051 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 D. Pathik
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 Judge}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1068051 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16147720\charrsid1068051 
\par At Suva
\par 23 April 2004
\par }}