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\b\fs24\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 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\pararsid6441942 {\fs24\insrsid5273174\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\fs24\insrsid5273174\charrsid14488973 CIVIL ACTION NO.: HBC}{\fs24\insrsid5265669\charrsid14488973 0234 OF 1997
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\fs24\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 BETWEEN:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 MUNEEM PRAN }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
f/n James Pran }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid14488973 and
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 LALITA PRAN
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942\charrsid6441942 Plaintiffs}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942 -v-}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 THE NATIONAL TRUST FOR FIJI
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942 Defendants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\i\fs24\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 Mr. S. Matawalu}{\fs24\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942  for Plaintiff
\par }{\i\fs24\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 Ms S. Saumatua}{\fs24\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942  for Defendant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 JUDGMENT
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid6441942 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 This case raises the issue of some general importance regarding the powers of a bailiff distraining for rent.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The process of distress for rent consists of entry into premises, seizure of goods, securing or impounding the goods, taking an inventory and sale.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The Distress for Rent Act Cap 36 is woefully inadequate so in Fiji we have to rely principally on common law
 to find what the applicable law is.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The Act provides only for certified bailiffs to levy dis}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14488973 tress, goods which may not be di}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 strained, the time for making distress and issue of appraisement.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 All other issues are left to common law.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 FACTS:
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The defendant was the owner of certain premises in Levuka, Ovalau.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The plaintiffs were its tenant under a written tenancy agreement dated 7th November 1994.
\par 
\par The plaintiffs operated a hardware and grocery shop known as Levuka Timber and Hardware Merchants from the rented premises.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The plaintiffs in their statement of claim which is remarkable in its repetition of same facts firstly base their claim on trespass in that they say that on 29th July 1996 the defendant illegally broke into the shop premises witho
ut any valid reason and disposed off all the contents.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The premises at the time were locked.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The plaintiffs alleged the seized goods included both perishable goods and personal goods and were illegally sold.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Secondly, the plaintiffs\rquote  claim is based on an alleged illegal seizure under alleged distress of rent.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 They claim that $128,000.00 worth of goods were seized when rent if any owing was only $6,500.00.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The sale of goods subsequently on 1st August 1998 was an unlawful sale they say.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Thirdly they base thei
r claim on negligence in that the defendant acted negligently by failing to obtain proper price for seized items in that it sold items below marked price and that it did not take proper inventory.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 As a result the plaintiffs\rquote  business has come to a halt.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The claim is for unspecified unparticularized special damages which is quite unusual and which confounds the very basic rules of pleadings and general damages.
\par 
\par The defendant in its defence denies that the plaintiffs were its tenants at the material time and denies that the plaintiffs paid rent in time.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 It denies its entry onto the premises was illegal.
\par 
\par At the pre-trial conference the counsels agreed to certain facts.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
In light of what various witnesses claimed in their testimony and which contradicted agreed facts, I shall set out the various agreed facts:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid282503 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942\charrsid282503 (a)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 There existed a tenancy agreement dated 7th day of November 1994 between the parties.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid282503 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid282503\charrsid5273174 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid282503 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942\charrsid282503 (b)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The monthly rental was $650.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid282503\charrsid5273174 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid282503 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942\charrsid282503 (c)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The defendant levied distress and seized all the goods.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid282503\charrsid5273174 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid282503 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942\charrsid282503 (d)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The chattels were sold }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid9064750 by auction}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
 on 1st August 1997 (which I believe is a slip and should be 1996).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6441942 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid282503\charrsid5273174 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid282503 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942\charrsid282503 (e)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6441942  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Arrears of rental as at 31st August 1997 (again a slip) was $7,150.00.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid13441864 PW1 MUNEEM PRAN}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  is one of the plaintiffs and is one of the owners of Levuka Timber and Hardware.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He said he has been in business since 1989 and as his business expanded he moved into the Old Morris Hedstrom\rquote 
s building in 1994.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 On 7th November 1994 he entered into a tenancy agreement with the defendant.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The rental was $650.00 per month.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He was never in arrears.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
A distress for rent was levied against him by the defendant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He was advised on phone that he was in arrears by the Director of National Trust one Birendra Singh.
\par 
\par He said that when he took over the tenancy, he was told to do repairs to the interior but not to interfere with walls or the roof as the building was a historic building.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In April or May 1995 there was a heavy downpour resulting in leakage through the roof causing damage to computers, cash registers, fax machines, microwaves, carpets and stock.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The next day he rang the defendant and advised him of damages.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He was advised by the defendant to repair the roof.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He told the court that he repaired the roof by putting new roofing iron.
\par 
\par Later the Director of National Trust came from Suva and inspected the damaged items and saw repairs he had carried out.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The two of them agreed that value of damaged items and repairs to roof was worth $15,000.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The Director advised
 him he would go back to Suva and see the Board how could he be reimbursed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He wrote a letter with a view to the defendant reimbursing him.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He was told to keep paying rent which he did for April, May, June and July.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Later, the Director came to Levuka and a
dvised him that he could set off rent against the $15,000.00.
\par 
\par In June 1996 he said he was in Koro Island where he had another branch of his shop.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
His wife had gone to Suva to attend to her sick father.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 She was to return the next day but their truck got stolen in Suva.
\par 
\par He says he was informed by a friend of his that his shop had been broken into by the defendant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He rang the Director of Trust but he would not come on the phone.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He learnt from Levuka Police that a distress notice was pasted on the shop.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He 
went with his accountant to his solicitor but the solicitor could not do anything.
\par 
\par He said he went back to Levuka after three or four months but later changed this to few weeks.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
When he returned to Levuka he could not gain entry to his shop.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He added he o
wed no rent to the defendant but in fact the defendant owed him over $7,000.00 in June 1996.
\par 
\par In cross-examination he said he wrote in March 1995 saying building needed repairs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He agreed the letter made no mention of agreement by defendant to reimburse him $15,000.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He agreed there was nothing in writing about payment of $15,000.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He agreed the defendant had replaced roofing iron after he wrote letter in March.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 It repaired the entire roof.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He denied that he had vacated the property in early June 1996 b
ut said by time of distress the shop had been closed for ten to twelve days.
\par 
\par PW2 SAVENACA BALENASINU is a bailiff who lived in Levuka.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He was instructed by solicitors for the defendant to levy distress.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He was sent the necessary documents.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The arrears of rent was $7,150.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He pasted a copy of distress notice on the door of the shop.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
After five days, he broke the lock on the back door to gain access to the premises as the occupants were not there.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He conducted a stock-take that is took an inventory.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He gave the original to the plaintiff and kept a photocopy.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He estimated the value of goods inside the shop exceeded $7,000.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In cross-examination he said frozen goods and junk food were not sold.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He could not say how much goods were in the shop.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He alleged he
 had not been fully paid for his services by the defendant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Out of $888.55 he was paid only $361.00.
\par 
\par The plaintiff came to him and he gave the plaintiff all records.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He discussed the case with the plaintiff.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He knew Graham Eden and Associates were engaged to conduct the sale.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 They conducted stock sale not an auction sale.
\par 
\par In re-examination he said he was not favouring Muneem Pran.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The shop was closed when Muneem Pran was in Suva.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 It was closed for a long time.
\par 
\par PW3 JAMES CHAND at the material time operated a taxi and mini bus service between Levuka and Levuka airport.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He said he knew Birendra Singh as he at times hired his taxi.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He said that on 24th June 1996 his father bought a few tools and a deep freezer worth $3,000.00 for $1,200.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He also said Birendra Singh gave him a rip saw in lieu of taxi fare of $60.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
However I note he produced no receipts nor was he an expert in knowing the value of such items.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
\par 
\par PW4 KISHORE NAND said in 1996 he was Manager of Levuka Timber and Hardware.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
As a Manager he knew of prices of items as he did the costing.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He said the company was flourishing in 1996 and he was paid well.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He added that Mrs Pran had to go to Suva so the shop was closed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In Suva, their truck was stolen so she did not return.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He received a call from Birendra Singh who told the witness he was hiring him for a day.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He did not ring the Prans as he considered it was unnecessary to get involved in what Birendra Singh was doing.
\par 
\par He went to the shop in the morning of auction.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The witness was on main counter and Birendra Singh at the till.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He assisted Birendra in pricing in case of unmarked items.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 It was not an auction but an ordinary supermarket type of sale.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The sale lasted from 8.00 a.m. to 8.30 p.m.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
Birendra Singh according to him was a bit disappointed as not all items had been sold so Birendra Singh contacted one Anil Kishore who dealt in general hardware and grocery.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Anil Kishore came to the shop and the two negotiated a price of $8,000.00 for items which the witness thought would be worth $35,000.00.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Anil paid by cheque.
\par 
\par Birendra Singh asked the witness to stay on.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He had stacks of money on him in a brief case.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He assisted in counting.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 It was almost $45,000.00 apart from the $8,000.00 cheque.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He said items were sold at reduced price up to fifty to sixty percent on some items.
\par 
\par In cross-examination he said he could not recall what day Mrs Pran went to Suva as it was a long time ago but it was June.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He could not tell for how long the shop had been closed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He said even though he was the Manager of the shop he did not know whether rent was in arrears.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He said Birendra Singh hired him to conduct the auction but he was not told why Birendra Singh was conducting the auction. 
\par 
\par He later changed his version and said he contacted Pran.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Birendra Singh came all of a sudden.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He said hardware items would be worth $60,000.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He could recall figures even though matter was eight years old.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Lots of people came to the shop mainly to buy grocery items.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He assessed left over items at $35,000.00 and he added he discussed the figures with Anil.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He has no evidence to support his figures.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid13441864 PW5 STEVEN DISTON}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  is a hotelier.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He was an accountant until 1984 when he retired in England and came to Fiji.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He had been hired by the plaintiffs to prepare a cash flow budget for National Bank of Fiji to restructure plaintiffs\rquote  account.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He was there for two months in April and May 1996.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He said had had sale figures from January and based on those figures weekly sales would average $20,000.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He projected a turnover of about one million dollars for 1996.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He said for retail items one had to keep a ten-week supply.
\par 
\par He learnt of closure of shop and rang Pran in Koro and also tried to unsuccessfully contact Mrs Pran.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He assisted Pran to find a lawyer.
\par 
\par In cross-examination he said his figures are based on professional advice and not on fact.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He would not know how much stock had been sold.
\par 
\par The defendant called one witness Elizabeth Erasito.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 She is the current Director of National Trust.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The previous director Birendra Singh migrated to New Zealand after he tendered his resignation.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 She testified on basis of records in the file.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 She said there was nothing in the records which showed that the Trust owed any money to the plaintiffs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 According to the records of the defendant, when the plaintiffs were in arrears of rent, Q.B. Bale solicitors were instructed to issue distress.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The total proceeds of sale after distress was $11,329.00 after Graham Eden & Associates had deducted their expenses to conduct sale.

\par 
\par In cross-examination she said the trust received a cheque from Graham Eden & Associates not from Q.B. Bale & Associates.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 ISSUE 1 \endash  Was the distress without cause and unlawful?}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11957311\charrsid5273174 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Central to the plaintiff}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13441864 \rquote }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 s case is the asserti
on that the defendant had agreed to reimburse them $15,000.00 for alleged repairs to roof and damages to items caused by a downpour.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 That downpour occurred according to PW1 in April or May.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
In support of the alleged oral agreement he tendered Exhibit 2.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Th
at exhibit is dated 20th March when the downpour referred to by the plaintiff had not occurred so neither the alleged repairs nor any damage to items could have occurred by leaking roof.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The letter in fact refers to $15,000.00 spent on repairing the interior.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 It also mentions leaks during rain and requests for repair and which were done in May by the defendant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 It does not state any damage to items.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
I am of the view the plaintiff tried to deliberately mislead the court but the date on contents of the letter do not bear him out.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
I do not believe the plaintiff that the Director Birendra Singh agreed to reimburse him $15,000.00 after talking to the Board.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
If he had he certainly would not have levied distress.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Nor is this agreement, so important to plaintiffs\rquote  c
ase, pleaded in the statement of claim.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The plaintiff is a business person and it is unlikely that he would not have sought something in writing from the defendant in respect of the $15,000.00 which is a substantial sum of money equivalent to close to two years rent.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The plaintiffs\rquote 
 story becomes more implausible when one reads the agreed facts by the parties which says the plaintiff owed $7,150.00 to the defendant as at 31st August 1996.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 How could the plaintiffs\rquote  solicitors have agreed to this if there was arrangement in place to set off rent against $15,000.00?
\par 
\par I therefore find that at the time of levy of distress a sum of $7,150.00 rent was in arrears.
\par 
\par A landlord has statutory powers to levy distress if rent is in arrears by virtue of Section 91(b) of t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11957311 he Property Law Act which reads}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 :
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid11957311 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11957311 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11957311 (a) }{
\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 \'93In every lease of land there shall be implied the following powers in the lessor, his personal }{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14488973 
representatives and transferees;}{\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid11957311 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11957311 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 (b)}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11957311  }{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 that whenever the rent reserved is in arrears he or they may levy the same by distress.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid11957311 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Clause 4(g) of the January Agreement entered into between the parties are expressly adopts this power.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13441864 Clause 4(g) reads}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 :
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11957311 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 \'93
The covenants powers rights and restrictio
ns and forms of words deemed to be implied or contained in or to affect leases under and by virtue of Sections 90 and 91 of the Property Law Act Cap 130 shall be deemed to be implied or contained herein or to affect these presents (unless hereby negative 
or modified) as if the same had been fully set out herein and as if these presents were a lease made under the said Act.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid11957311 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Hence in face of this clause the defendant had the right to levy distress if rent was in arrears.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The tenancy was a subsisting tenancy
 at the time of distress there being no evidence that the landlord had re-entered and determined the tenancy for non-payment of rent prior to levying the distress.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The tenant too had not indicated in any way that the tenancy had been terminated.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 TRESPASS \endash  BREAKING OF LOCK TO GAIN ENTRY:
\par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14488973 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The plaintiff alleges that the defendant illegally broke into the premises without serving any demand or without approval from the plaintiff.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In his evidence the plaintiff said in May 1996 he was told by the Director of National Trust by phone that rent was in arrears.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 According to the bailiff Savenaca Balenasinu he broke the backdoor lock to gain entry.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Before doing that he had pasted a copy of the distress notice on the front door of the shop.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 That notice remained there for five days.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The bailiff is a local and he had known that the shop had been closed for a long time.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Muneem Pran in his evidence in chief said he went to Koro and returned to Levuka after three or four months.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 When his counsel expressed surprise he changed it to a few weeks.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
In cross-examination he said his wife had left Levuka on 11th June 2004.
\par 
\par Woodfall on Landlord and Tenants volume 1 paragraph 9.126 states}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14488973 :
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14488973 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 \'93
The law of distress gives the landlord to whom rent is due, the right to do things, which if done by any other person would be trespass; provided he does not break the}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  }{
\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 outer door of the building\'94}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 .
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
\par The initial entry by the bailiff must be placeable and with the consent of the tenant \endash  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid9450637 Khazanchi v. Fairchem Investments Limited}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  [1998] 2 ALL ER 901.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
That was a case where the initial entry by the bailiff was by consent of the tenants and a walking possession agreement had been entered entitling the bailiff to re-enter at any time while the distress was in force.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Payment of rent not having been made and
 distress remained in force, the bailiff broke into the locked premises and removed goods in the absence of the tenants.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The English Court of Appeal concluded that in limited circumstances of forcible ejection or deliberate exclusion which would justify use of force, there was no right of forcible entry.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 What amounts to deliberate exclusion depends on the circumstances of each case.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 While the concept of deliberate exclusion was discussed in above case where initial entry was lawful there is no reason why the same concept }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid13441864 cannot}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
 be applied where the circumstances at first step of distress give rise to such a conclusion being reasonably drawn.
\par 
\par While the above case is a persuasive authority and deserves to be treated with great respect, it is strictly not binding on our courts.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 At the heart of the reasoning in the case lies social and economic changes in England.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In the present day and age the court reasoned it was not unusual for people to lock their doors and the whole family being out to work so mere existen
ce of a locked door did not point to an intention to exclude entry.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The case puts a huge onus on a bailiff \endash 
 how is a bailiff to know whether he is being deliberately excluded or whether the tenant is out for a day or two.
\par 
\par In the present case, the bailiff knew the tenants were out and the shop had been closed for quite some time.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
If Muneem Pran is to be believed, the shop had been left closed for at least eleven days between the day his wife left and the day the notice was pasted on the front door.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He had knowledge of this.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He had learnt of it from Levuka Police Station.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 They took no action.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Muneem Pran continued to remain away from Levuka.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He said he saw a solicitor but there is not even a letter from the solicitor to National Trust complaining about the distress.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
This action was filed on 17th June 1997 some ten months after the incident, an unusually long time for a person to remain dormant while his interests are so violently violated.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I do not believe Muneem Pran that he tried to contact the Director Birendra Singh.
\par 
\par In the circumstances of the case with the shop being left closed for so many days and five more days without any reaction from the plaintiffs, the plaintiff could reasonably have concluded that it was being deliberately excluded or that the p
rocess of distress was being deliberately stifled.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The plaintiff had been forewarned in May of the rent arrears.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The defendant had no choice except to break the lock and put a new lock.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I hold that plaintiffs\rquote  actions did not amount to trespass.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The rent being in arrears, the defendant had the right to distress including seizing and selling the goods.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 EXCESSIVE DISTRESS:}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid424486 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450637\charrsid424486 
\par }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The matter does not rest here as the plaintiff is also alleging that the defendant failed to obtain the best price and sold items at an undervalue }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14046244 [}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid424486 price}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14046244 ]}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid424486  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 and for levying excessive distress.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The landlord can still be liable even if the initial entry is proper, his subsequent acts are irregular or distress excessive.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The plaintiff in his statement of claim (paragraph 6) said }{\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 \'93a full list of goods and chattels shall be}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  }{
\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 produced at the trial of this action\'94}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 .}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Having pleaded that, one would expect to plaintiff to have the list.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
I was waiting for the list and in fact asked the plaintiff when the last stock take was done hoping it would spur plaintiff into remedying the oversight and bringing in the list.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The most crucial piece of evidence which the plaintiff has not produced is the inventory taken by the bailiff.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The inventory would have shown what exactly was seized by the bailiff from the shop.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The bailiff was plaintiffs\rquote  witness.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He testified that he took inventory in an exercise book and made a photocopy.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He also stated he gave copy of record of stocktaking to Muneem Pran.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The plaintiff had the records but has elected not to discl
ose these to the court.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
These records would be of immense significance in assisting the court to reach conclusion as to certain matters as they would have shown what items were seized, the quantity seized and may even have given the court a rough idea of their worth.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Without these records the court is hardly in a position to decide whether the distress levied was excessive.
\par 
\par An excessive distress is really an irregular distress.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Any distress may not be excessive.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
A distress must be clearly proportionate to the arrears of rent and costs of distress, taking into account the conditions under which a forced sale of goods must take place \endash  }{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid9450637 
Field v. Mitchell}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  170 ER 133.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
To avoid excess all the distrainor has to do is exercise reasonable care in estimating what the goods would fetch at a sale by auction without calculating what the tenant could have realized for them.
\par 
\par The bailiff could not assist the court.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14046244 All he said was I guess }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
goods inside shop were worth over $7,000.00.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He said frozen goods and junk food were not sold.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 PW3 James Chand said his father bought goods worth $3,000.00 for $1,200.00, suggesting that proper prices were not obtained.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 But he is not an expert in pricing items.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He neither gave his qualification nor experienced in such matters.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
PW4 Kishore Nand said he said he helped in pricing items and said that he saw Birendra Singh count close to $45,000.00 apart from a cheque for $8,000.00.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I find this particular witness clearly incredible.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
I base it firstly on his demeanour in him having to be restrained by court for putting questions back at the counsel during cross-examination.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 His actions also appeared inexplicable.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He says he was surpris
ed when approached by Birendra Singh to assist him but made no attempt to contact his employer whose shop was going to be closed and even future employment of the witness put in peril.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 When cornered, he said he did contact the plaintiff.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He said he did not want to unnecessarily get involved in what Birendra Singh was doing but then lent him a helping hand in pricing and selling items.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He says he was the Manager of the shop but yet he assisted in acting against his boss\rquote s interests even though Birendra Singh did not tell him why he was selling items.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 His acts are quite inexplicable.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He said despite being the Manager he did not know if rent was in arrears.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Would a manager of a shop stand by and left someone else run riot as the witness suggested for no reason.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I have no doubt that this witness came to assist the plaintiff and truth to him mattered little.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I do not believe that he assisted the Director count money or that $35,000.00 worth of goods were sold for $8,000.00.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I doubt very much if goods worth $35,000.00 were in the shop.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
I do not put any weight to figures he gave me or about the contents in the shop.
\par 
\par PW5 Steven Diston\rquote s evidence is strictly irrelevant to the present inquiry.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
He was employed to do a projection based on figures for purposes of a loan.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He was not an auditor but an advisor.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He produced no ledgers or cash books.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He produced no figures for stock purchased during 1996 or close to the time of distress by the plaintiffs or any evidence by invoices of purchases made.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The issue in this case is w
hat was actually in the shop and what was seized not some vague possibilities of what would be value of items in the shop if it had been operating on basis of some historical figures.
\par 
\par Excess is a matter of fact.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 To determine what is considered to be excess, the court must know \endash 
\par 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9450637 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 (a)}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450637  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 value or amount of goods of the plaintiff at the time of distress;}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450637\charrsid5273174 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9450637 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450637 (b) }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
the arrears and costs involved in the distress;}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid9450637 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450637\charrsid5273174 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid9450637 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9450637 (c) }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
the value or amount of goods detained to recover the rent arrears.
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
\par In the present case, I have no credible figures as to the value or amount of goods of the plaintiffs in the shop at the time of distress.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 All I have are speculative figures.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
I do not know what the goods were.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I am unable to rely on any figures.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The plaintiff has also, even though he had access to records, did not provide evidence on amount of goods seized.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The evidence before the court is that Grahame Eden & Associates who conducted the sale paid $11,329.00 to the defendant after deducting their costs.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The rent arrears was $7,150.00 leaving a balance therefore of $4,179.99.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The defendant said the surplus was $3,679.00 as according to audit report arrears of rent was $7,650.00.
\par 
\par I am aware that the place detained was a shop in Levuka.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Numerous small items would probably be included among the seized items.}{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 There was a need to sell to recover rent.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 One could hardly expect the defendant to stop the sale, close the shop every now and then and count up the total.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Prospective buyers would lose patience in such circumstances and leave.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The defendant would not have been able to recover the arrears.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The distress was not greatly disproportionate I hold.
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
\par In any event a claim for excessive distress is a form of irregular distress.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
At common law a claim for irregular distress cannot be maintained without proof of special damages. Without proving special damages, the plaintiff is not even entitled to nominal damages \endash  }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid13065413 Rodgers v. Parker}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  \endash  139 ER 1308; }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid13065413 Lucas v. Tarleton}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  \endash  157 ER 409.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Special damages not having been proved, claim under this head fails.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid14488973 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 GOODS SOLD UNDER REAL VALUE:}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13065413\charrsid14488973 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The plaintiff alleges that goods were sold at less than the real value.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Kishore Nand testified that goods were sold at below prices up to fifty to sixty percent reduction on some items.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I have already said I have serious doubts about his credibility.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In any event, this was not a sale between a willing buyer and a willing seller but a forced sale.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The mere fact that goods were sold at an undervalue does not prove the distress was an excessive distress \endash  }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid13065413 Thompson v. Wood}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174  \endash  1843 QB 493 (Halsbury \endash  4th edition Volume 13, para 372).}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
It would have been impossible for the defendant to have calculated with accuracy the price of each and every item sold and insist on selling at par value.
\par 
\par The plaintiff also submitted that unauthorized persons had levied distress.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The bailiff was authorized to levy distress.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 He had the certificate to levy distress.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The Director of the defendant assisted him by supervising.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The Director represented the landlord.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 A landlord under Section 3 can levy distress.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 The scale of the distress and the nature of the distress being that of a shop warranted that bailiff be assisted.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In fact bailiff asked for further assistance to take stock.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Licensed auctioneers were engaged to conduct the sale.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The completion of entire process of distress was beyond the scope of one person so involvement of others does not render it illegal, so the allegation of illegal distress fails.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 REFUND OF SURPLUS:}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13065413\charrsid14488973 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 From defendant\rquote s own evidence, it is clear that it is holding onto a sum of $3,679.00 being surplus funds collected under distress.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 My calculations show it should be $4,179.00.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 This sum as a matter of equity should be refunded to the plaintiffs.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Further, the plaintiffs have been kept out of these moneys since 1st August 1996 so interest ought to be paid on it.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I order that the defendants refund this sum with interest at ten percent from 1st August 1996.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 CONCLUSION:}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13065413\charrsid14488973 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I hold therefore that the plaintiff did owe the defendant rent and the initial levy of distress was lawful.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In the circumstances of this case with shop being left unattended for so long, it was reasonable for a person to conclude that either the bailiff was being deliberately kept out 
or that the premises were abandoned.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
The plaintiffs had not informed the defendant where they were so the only alternative for the bailiff was to paste the notice on the front door and he broke the backdoor lock after lapse of reasonable period of five days.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I conclude that there was no trespass.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Without the aid of inventory or stock-take done by the bailiff, it is impossible for this court to conclude that the distress was irregular or excessive.
\par 
\par I would have been much more impressed with the assertions of catastrophic damages if the plaintiff\rquote s actions had matched his words.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 If such immediate and serious damage was inflicted as to cause him to close his business, I would have expected the plaintiff to act far more vigorously and expeditiously both in the 
commencement and continuation of these proceedings.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 In my view the delay is inconsistent with serious and immediate damage.
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 ORDERS:}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13065413\charrsid13065413 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 Accordingly I dismiss the plaintiffs\rquote  claim.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
I order the defendant to refund the sum of $4,179.00 together with interest on this sum at the rate of ten percent per annum from 1st August 1996.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 I do not order costs to the defendant as it failed to disclose the existence of the surplus funds in its defence or even at the pre-trial conference stage.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5273174  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 As it could have resulted in settlement before trial.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 [ Jiten Singh ]
\par JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5273174 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid5273174 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5265669\charrsid14488973 At Suva
\par 23rd July 2004
\par }}