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{\author Information Technology Unit}{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2005\mo12\dy3\hr16\min54}{\revtim\yr2005\mo12\dy3\hr16\min54}{\version2}{\edmins0}{\nofpages11}{\nofwords4697}{\nofchars26779}{\*\company Judicial Department}{\nofcharsws31414}
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\fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par CRIMINAL JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8609956 CRIMINAL CASE NO: HAC0}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 013 OF 2003S

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 STATE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 v.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 SURESH SANI; and
\par DEO RAJ
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par Hearing:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 19th January 2004 \endash  6th February 2004
\par Ruling:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 9th February 2004
\par 
\par Counsel:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Mr. W. Kuruisaqila for State
\par Ms J. Nair and Ms S. Vaniqi for 1st Accused
\par Mr. R. Chand and Mr. Qereqeretabua for 2nd Accused
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\b\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 Ruling on Trial within a Trial
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par Counsel for both accused object to the admission of caution and charge statements made to the police in the course of the investigation in this case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 A trial within a trial has been held to determine admissibility.
\par 
\par Both accused persons have similar objections.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
They are that the interviews were obtained by assault, oppression, inducements and torture.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
It is also alleged that neither accused person was told of his right to counsel nor given an opportunity to see family members.
\par 
\par The principles relevant to the admissibility of interviews made to the police, are that they must be shown by the prosecution to have been obtained voluntarily and without oppression.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The prosecution must also prove that there were no breaches of those Constitutional rights which persons in police custody are entitled to, and that if there are such breaches, the accused were not thereby prejudiced.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 In considering the admiss
ibility of statements taken in breach of constitutional rights, the courts must balance those rights, with the interests of the public in relation to the investigation and prosecution of crimes.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 In all matters, the burden is on the prosecution to prove beyond reasonable doubt, that the confessions should be admitted in evidence.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 The prosecution evidence
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par The prosecution called the two interviewing officers Cpl. Anirudh Kumar and Cpl. Ami Chand to tender the interview records.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The witnessing officers, IP Sharendra Shyam and PC Rakesh Mani were also called.
\par 
\par Their evidence was that the 1st accused, Suresh Sani was arrested on suspicion of murder, at his house in Vuci, Nausori at about 7.30pm on the 21st of June 2002.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The interview commenced at 9.30pm on the same day, at the Nausori Police Station Crime Office.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 It was conducted in Hindi by Cpl. Ami Chand and witnessed by IP Shyam.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He was advised of his right to see counsel, legal advisor, social worker or any member of his family.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He waived these rights.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He the
n told the police that from about 7pm on the 31st of December 1999 to 3am on the 1st of January 2000 he had been at the house of one Jai Govind at Lakena with his wife and children.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 That was the time the police suspected the deceased had been killed.
\par 
\par The interview was suspended at 1am on the 22nd of June.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused was kept in the charge room until 10.30am the next day.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The interview recommenced.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused then told the police a different version of what occurred.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that Jagat Narayan (his employer), Manoj Deo Raj (the 2nd accused), Jiten and he, had together planned to kill Ashok Kumar in order to benefit from his life insurance policy.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that on 31st December 1999 they all (except for Jagat Narayan) were in the 2nd accused\rquote s taxi with Ashok Kumar.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Ashok Kumar was given gin.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They drove to the Koronivia Road.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Manoj opened a car door causing Ashok Kumar to fall out onto the road.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 2nd accused then drove his taxi over Ashok Kumar, drove back to Nausori town where the 1st accused was dropped at the Mobil Service Station.
\par 
\par The interview was then suspended, at 12.30pm, for lunch.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
It resumed at 8.10pm when the 1st accused gave yet another version of the events of that night.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
This time he said that at 5.30pm on the 31st of December 1999, he picked up the 2nd accused from the house of Jai Govind in the van CX457, which belonged to Jagat Narayan.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They went to Nausori town and picked up Ashok Kumar at the Mobil Service Station.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He had a bottle of gin with him, and they bought some roast chicken at a restaurant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They then went to Bau Road and drank gin, after buying more gin at the shop of Indar Jeet.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 By 12 midnight Ashok Kumar had fallen asleep, leaning on a door in the car.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused drove to Koronivia Road and stopped near a culvert.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 2nd accused opened the door and Ashok Kumar fell out.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 2nd accused then pulled Ashok Kumar until he lay in front of the rear left tyre.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He got back into the van and the 1st accused drove over Ashok Kumar.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The motive given was that the 1st accused was 
the sole beneficiary of Ashok Kumar\rquote s insurance policy.
\par 
\par The interview was then suspended at 9pm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 It resumed at 11.20am on the 23rd of June, for reconstruction of the scene.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The party returned to the Police Station at 12.05pm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The interview resumed, the interviewing officer questioning him about the details of the alleged murder.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 At 1pm the interview was suspended for lunch.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
It resumed at 2.15pm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The questioning was then about the insurance policy and a false passport the 1st accused said he had had made in the name of Prem Chand in order to flee the country.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 At 5.30pm the interview was suspended for a rest and dinner.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 It recommenced at 4.20pm on the 24th of June.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He was then shown a number of documents in relation to the false passport and the registration of the business Zier Motor Part Dealers.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The interview was suspended for dinner at 6.30pm and resumed at 7.40pm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 After further questions about the Zier Company, its bank records and the insurance policy, the interview was suspended at 11pm for a rest.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 It resumed at 1.05pm the next day (25.6.02) and after a few more questions about the insurance policy it concluded at 2.15pm.

\par 
\par From the 21st of June 2002 to the 25th of June 2002 the 1st accused was in custody.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
On the nights of the 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th of June, he slept in the police cell.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The station diary shows that clothes were brought in for him by his wife and that other visitors also came to see him.
\par 
\par The prosecution led evidence that the police, on the 24th of June 2002, applied for a court order to extend the time the accused were held in police custody.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The application was made to the Nausori Magistrates\rquote  Court, under section 27(3)(b) of the Constitution.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The application was granted.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The Order tendered does not indicate how long the extension was for, but the accused were brought to court the next day, on the 25th of June 2002.
\par 
\par In respect of the 2nd accused, he was brought to the police station on the 22nd of June 2002, at 3.45pm by DC Rakesh Mani.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He was interviewed under caution by PC 1530 Anirudra Kumar.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The interview was witnessed by DC Rakesh Mani.
\par 
\par According to the record of interview, he was told of his right to counsel, a legal adviser, a social worker or a member of his family.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He waived these rights.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He was then cautioned.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He began by telling the police that on the night of 31/12/99 he, Ashok Kumar and the 1st accused went to the 1st accused\rquote 
s house to drink gin.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused then dropped the 2nd accused near the Nausori Police Station and drove off.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 2nd accused went to the Dee Cees garage (where he was employed as a bus driver) and drove to the Stadium.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He then drove a bus to Nadera, then went back to the garage.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He went to his home at Caubati at 11.30pm, and went to sleep.
\par 
\par The interview was suspended at 10pm, and continued the next day at 11.30am.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Overnight, he was locked up in the cell.
\par 
\par On the 23rd of June, the 2nd accused told a different story.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 This time he said that after drinking gin, at the 1st accused
\rquote s house, they left in a blue van which belonged to Jagat and drove towards Sawani.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 1st accused parked the van at a Chinese shop at Davuilevu and gave more gin to Ashok.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
They together made Ashok sit in the middle.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Ashok was asleep and snoring.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused told the 2nd accused that he wanted to kill Ashok.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 2nd accused told the police that this came as no surprise to him, because the murder had been planned a week earlier.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They decided to go to the Koronivia Road.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The interview was suspended at 1.35pm for lunch, and resumed at 3pm.
\par 
\par The 2nd accused then explained to the police how they made Ashok lie down on the grass verge, and how the 1st accused drove the van over him.
\par 
\par At 5.10pm the interview was suspended for reconstruction of the scene.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 It resumed at 6pm.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Cpl. Anirudra then asked in some detail how the murder was co
mmitted and the circumstances of the taking out of insurance policies.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 At 7.20pm the interview was suspended for a rest and meal.
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 At 7.23pm, the Assistant Commissioner (Crime) and Assistant Commissioner (Professional Standards and Prosecutions) spoke to th
e 2nd accused and asked him how he was.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The record reads as follows:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8609956 \f2\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 \'93
Deo Raj told ACP(C) that he is OK. And telling all true things to Police, no use telling lies and he has no complaint against any one.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Only he needs a blanket.\'94
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par At 7.27pm the two Assistant Commissioners left the Crime Office.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The interview continued at 8.10pm. Question 69 and the answer read:
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8609956 \f2\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 \'93
Now I would like to question you in regards to one company?}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191 
\par }\pard \s18\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8609956\charrsid11689655 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8609956 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 A:\tab 
No, brother why don\rquote t you stop here as I really want to sleep.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par The interview was then suspended.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 It did not resume until 4.30pm on 24/6/02.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He then gave further information about the creation of the Zeir Motor Second Hand Parts Company, its bank account and the insurance policy.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The interview was suspended at 10pm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 It resumed at 11.
45am on 25/6/02 with some final questions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The interview was read over to him and he was invited to make any alterations he wished.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
It was concluded at 1.35pm on the same day.
\par 
\par At 2.20pm the 1st accused was charged by Cpl. Bhagwat.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He made an inculpatory statement similar to his statement under caution.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 At 2.30pm the 2nd accused was charged by PC Pradip Kumar.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He adopted the contents of his caution statement and said that he would say the rest in court.
\par 
\par Both accused were interviewed by a Justice of the Peace, Nand Singh.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He gave evidence that he interviewed Deo Raj at 2.20pm, in the Crime Office, and Suresh Sani at 2.29pm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Each said that he had no complaints against police.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The accused were taken to the Nausori Health Centre where they were examined by Dr. Edward Richards.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He said that he could not recall if a police officer was present during the examination, but that he asked each accused if he had a complaint.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He had been asked by the police to examine for signs of police assault.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that both accused consented to the examination and signed in his presence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused complained of backache.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
However, on examination of the back he found no injuries.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He assumed that the cause of the backache was soft tissue injury.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 2nd accused made no complaint and no injury was noted.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The examinations took place at 2.50pm (for the 2nd accused) and 3pm (for the 1st accused).
\par 
\par They were both taken to court on the 25th of June (the same day) at some time after 3pm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The charge was read and they were remanded in custody.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They were advised by the Magistrate to apply for legal aid.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 However on the 8th of July 2002, when the case was first called, they had still not applied for legal aid.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The prosecutor then approached the Human Rights Commission to assist them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  
}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 On the 19th of July 2002, Mr. Singh appeared for the 2nd accused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused remained unrepresented until the 13th of August 2002.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid16154536 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid16154536 The defence evidence
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par Both accused gave sworn evidence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused said that on the 21st of June 2002, IP Shyam and Cpl. A
mi Chand visited his home at about 7.30pm.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 1st accused said that IP Shyam had advised him to have a false passport made, and had promised him a work visa to Australia and New Zealand.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 On the 21st of June 2002, they discussed this over a bowl of yaqona at the 1st accused\rquote s home.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that Cpl. Ami Chand stood outside during these discussions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 At about 9pm, IP Shyam drove the 1st accused to the Police Station in his private vehicle, stopping on the way to pick up Cpl. Anirudhra.
\par 
\par At the Police Station in IP Shyam\rquote s office the 1st accused spoke privately to IP Shyam.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
IP Shyam showed the 1st accused the passport of Prem Chand.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The 1st accused saw there was no work visa stamped in it.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 When he queried this, IP Shyam told him he would be charged with obtaini
ng a false passport, and then began to question him about the deceased\rquote s insurance policy.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 1st accused refused to make a further statement.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He accused IP Shyam of corruptly closing an investigation into the arson of Jagat Narayan\rquote s garage.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Jagat Naraya
n was the 1st accused\rquote s employer.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 1st accused then said that IP Shyam slapped him, then called other police officers to further assault him.
\par 
\par His evidence thereafter was that he was assaulted severely on back, legs, and stomach by punches, and an iron rod about 3 feet in length and 1 inch in diameter.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that he was assaulted by Cpl. Anirudh, and Cpl. Ami Chand and that Cpl. Anirudh poked needles beneath his fingernails.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He alleges that the assault was almost continuous over the five days and that at night he was locked in a cell.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 During the five days, the police recorded false statements and beat him to get his agreement.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that he was told of his right to counsel, to see family members and a Justice of the Peace, but then when he asked to see his wife, his request was refused.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Cpl. Ami Chand then wrote out 8-10 pages of Hindi and forced the accused to sign it.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The pages were never read back to him, nor did he read them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He continued to record what he said was a false statement and he was beaten again by officers Rakesh Mani, Nilesh and Rajesh.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They told him to agree to the allegations and when they rubbed a chilly on his genitals, he agreed to whatever they said.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that he had received some meals but that he chose not to eat.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that at 7pm on the 22nd, he saw a prosecution witness, Jai Govind being assaulted.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They were forcing him to say that the 1st accused had brought a blue van to his house.
\par 
\par He said that his wife was brought in and questioned by the police in his presence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He sa
id he was taken to Koronivia at about 1.30pm on Tuesday to reconstruct the scene and on his return to the Station he was charged by Cpl. Bhagwat.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that IP Shyam told Cpl. Bhagwat what to write and that he (the 1st accused) was told to sign.
\par 
\par He said that Mr. Nand Singh, the Justice of the Peace came to the Police Station and he had some conversation with him about drinking in a garage and he then said he would tell his story in court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said the police officers and the J.P. were rushing, and that Constable Nilesh was standing near the door.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He was then taken to the Nausori Health Centre with the 2nd accused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 There, he said he had no conversation with the doctor and that Constable Nilesh told the doctor what to write in the report.
\par 
\par They were taken to the courthouse at Valelevu and remanded for 14 days.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He said that no visitor was allowed to see him in all of the time in custody, that he never received any clean clothes, that he never showered, that he was not given all his meals and that he was not gi
ven a blanket in the cell until Monday night, when on request, IP Shyam gave him one.
\par 
\par He called his wife, Sushila Wati as a witness.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
She supported his evidence as to the visit of IP Shyam to their house on the 21st of June, and said she made numerous atte
mpts to see her husband, but only saw him once, on Sunday the 23rd, when she was questioned by the police about the events of the 31st of December 1999.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 She said she saw Deo Raj, the 2nd accused with a swollen face and saw Constable Rakesh slap him on the face.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 She was not allowed to see the 1st accused again.
\par 
\par The 2nd accused also gave sworn evidence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He called three witnesses, Maya Wati Raj (his wife), Nilesh Raj (his son) and Jai Govind a relative.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 2nd accused said that he had been requested by Cpl. Anirudh to go to the Station on Saturday 22nd June 2002.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He was asked to make a statement.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He demurred, saying he had already made two previous statements.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 There was then a \'93verbal\'94 interrogation about the Zeir Second Hand Parts Company and the insurance p
olicies followed by an assault by Cpl. Anirudh on his stomach.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 2nd accused said that the punches landed on a surgical scar from a kidney operation 3-4 years ago.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Cpl. Anirudh then began to record a false statement.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The record reads: \'93Then Anirudh started writing false statement.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Rakesh and Rajesh were also there \'85 He took my statement.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Sometimes he only spoke and did not write.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Then he wrote 4-5 sentences, then asked me the next question.\'94
\par 
\par The 2nd accused said he was not read any of his rights.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 At 5.30
pm he and the 1st accused were assaulted by 4-5 police officers, as they lay on the floor side by side.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
They were assaulted by an iron bar all over their bodies and on the soles of their feet.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The assault continued for two hours.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Then Jai Govind was brought in when the two accused were still lying on the floor.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Jai Govind was also assaulted in front of them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They assaulted him because Jai Govind told them that the 1st accused had come in a yellow van.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 During this assault the two accused remained in the room.
\par 
\par The rest of his evidence was that he was continuously assaulted and forced to sign on each page of a fabricated confession.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
At one stage, he was hit by a 2 by 1 piece of timber, by Anirudh in the cell.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that he was given some meals but that he di
d not wish to eat some.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He said that on Sunday, a high-ranking police officer visited the station but that he did not speak to him at all.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
However Cpl. Anirudh told the officer that the 2nd accused wanted a blanket.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 However he was never given a blanket alt
hough he said that he did sleep in the cell.
\par 
\par After all the beating, the 2nd accused said that he was in considerable pain, and that he had visible injuries.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He said that his testes were swollen and painful, his stomach was painful and his feet were swollen.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He was forced to go to Koronivia and point at some place while they took a photograph of him, then later saw the Justice of the Peace to whom he complained about police assault.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The Justice of the Peace told him not to complain.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Cpl. Anirudh was standing at the door during this interview.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 2nd accused was then taken to the hospital where Constable Nilesh spoke to the doctor.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The doctor never examined them because he was with another patient, and simply wrote down what Constable Nilesh told him.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They w
ere then taken back to the Station and later taken to court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He said he told the prison doctor about the police assault, and tendered the prison medical report.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
That report shows that the 2nd accused, on the 5th of July 2002 complained of punches on his left side, and of the squeezing of his testes, by police.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 There is no record of a complaint of an assault by iron rod or timber.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The doctor however recorded \endash  \'93No sign of any internal or external injury.\'94}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He later made other complaints of pain and of assault by another prisoner but those findings are not relevant to the question of police assault.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The report confirms that the 2nd accused is a diabetic although he is deemed fit enough for normal prison duties.
\par 
\par Maya Wati (his wife) gave evidence that while her husband was in custody, she was not permitted to see him, and that she had brought clothes, Colgate, toothbrush, and shaving gear for him.
\par 
\par Steven Nileshwar Raj gave similar evidence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Jai Govind was called to give evidence for the 2nd accused.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said that he was taken to the Nausori Police Station at 7pm on a Saturday.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He did not recall the date.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He said he had also gone there in the morning.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He said he was taken to a room and he saw both accused there being assaulted by two police officers with a 2 inch thick and 2 feet long pipe.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 One officer was beating Deo Raj and the other was beating Suresh Sani.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Both accused were standing up.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
When Jai Govind arrived, the police officers started to beat him.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They made him sit on the floor and they hit him on the soles
 of his feet.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They stepped on his fingers and made him do press-ups.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The beating caused Jai Govind to urinate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
They never told him why they were beating him, nor did they speak to him.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He was then told to go home.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He is related to both accused.
\par 
\par That was the defence case.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid16154536 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid16154536 The submissions
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par Counsel for the 1st accused said that there were breaches of Constitutional rights, assault, oppression and fabrication of a false interview.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 She said that all the police witnesses were untruthful, that the Justice of the
 Peace was lying to protect the police, that Doctor Rickets never examined the 1st accused and falsified the medical report, and that the interviews, both caution and charge ought to be excluded.
\par 
\par Counsel for the 2nd accused made similar submissions.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 In pa
rticular he said that the inconsistent stories recorded in the interviews were evidence that the police were fabricating false statements according to the theories they considered plausible at the time, and that the accused were forced to agree to them.

\par 
\par State counsel pointed out that having said at the outset that the grounds for objecting to the admissibility of the confessions were assault, inducements and a false medical report, the accused had during the trial within \'93moved the goal posts\'94
 and had altered the nature of their objections.
\par 
\par He further said that the police evidence was credible and reliable, that the confessions had been voluntarily obtained from the accused, that their very inconsistencies demonstrated lack of fabrication, that there was n
o assault, inducements or oppression by police and that the statements, both caution and charge are admissible.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid16154536 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid16154536 Voluntariness
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par I consider that the prosecution has discharged its burden to prove voluntariness beyond reasonable doubt.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 In coming to this conc
lusion, I do not rely only on the evidence of the police witnesses, but also on the other evidence tendered.
\par 
\par Firstly, the station diary entries (although incomplete and sometimes inaccurate in detail) show that the accused were locked in the cells from the night of the 22nd, every night and that when checked they slept on most occasions.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Although it was suggested in cross-examination by counsel that the accused did not sleep, both accused themselves agreed that they slept.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 This is substantiated by the diary notes, including one entry when the 2nd accused was found awake and complaining of the cold.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The recording of this complaint alone indicates its veracity.
\par 
\par The diary entries also indicate that food was served regularly and fresh clothes delivered.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Althou
gh there is no direct evidence that the accused showered and changed, IP Shyam gave evidence which I accept, that the accused appeared clean and showered every day, and that they had changed their clothes.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 I also accept that the police went to some lengths (the evidence of Constable Nilesh) to ensure that fresh clothes were provided.}
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
I note also that of the 10 pills brought to the station for the 2nd accused, only 8 were returned to him and that this suggests that he took 2.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 This was recorded in the cell book.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
I further accept that meals were provided, and that although the cells were by no stretch of the imagination as comfortable as private homes, their conditions were not oppressive. The evidence is also that the accused were provided with blankets after 
the 2nd accused complained to ACP Moses Driver that he wanted a blanket in the cell.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The request, and the police response to it, in my opinion indicates that the accused had the freedom to complain and have the complaint dealt with.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Further, the fact that 
the interview for the 2nd accused was suspended at his request, because he wanted to sleep, suggests that the accused had the ability to choose the circumstances of, and the length of, the interviews.
\par 
\par I am concerned about the length of custody.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The longer
 a person is held in custody, the more likely it is that free will and voluntary conduct is eroded and sapped.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 1st accused was in custody from 9pm on 21st June 2002 to 4pm on the 25th of June.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Each time he was kept in a cell (except for the night of the 21st when he was kept in the charge room) and he appears to have slept, showered and changed each day thereafter.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 He may have been tired on the 22nd of June because of the night spent in the charge room, but he was not interviewed again until the 23rd of
 June, after he had slept the night of the 22nd in the cell.
\par 
\par The length of time spent in custody was undoubtedly longer than can be considered acceptable.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Despite the judicial stamp of approval (obtained according to the station diary, verbally at 6.30pm 
on Sunday 23rd of June and confirmed in writing on the 24th) the length of custody must be considered to decide whether or not the circumstances of detention were oppressive.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 I find in this case that the length of time the interview was held between suspen
sions never exceeded 4 hours (and the longest was the time spent on recording the exculpatory part of it), that there were breaks for rest and refreshments, that the accused was under caution and that he was comfortable and had no complaints establishes l
ack of oppression in the length and conditions of custody.
\par 
\par The 2nd accused was in custody for a shorter period of time (from 6pm on the 22nd to 4pm on the 25th) and I make similar findings in his case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 I accept the evidence of Cpl. Anirudh that the 2nd acc
used spoke to ACP (Crime) Moses Driver at 7.23pm on Sunday, and that he told the Assistant Commissioner that he was well, was telling the Police the truth and that he had no complaints.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 I accept also that the 2nd accused was able to stop the interview for a rest when he was tired and that the police were considerate in agreeing to his request.
\par 
\par I now turn to the allegation of assault.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The police denied any assault.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The doctor found no injuries on either accused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The Justice of the Peace said the accused did not complain of assault.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The accused certainly made no complaint of assault to the Magistrate on numerous appearances in the lower court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
It appears that they never complained to their lawyers either, even after they were represented.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 If they had, the law
yers would undoubtedly have informed the Magistrate and requested medical examination.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 2nd accused complained to the prison doctor, in July 2002 but he found no injuries, 10 days after the 25th of June.
\par 
\par If the accused had been assaulted in such a brutal fashion, with an iron rod, needles and a piece of timber, and with punches and other assaults, they would certainly have visible injuries.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Indeed the accused both say they had visible injuries.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Dr. Rickets, who said he examined them on the 25th of June found no injuries.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Even with a police officer standing nearby, a doctor would certainly have noticed injuries even without a thorough examination.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Although the doctor agrees he did not examine the accused all over their bodies, he said he examined them and found no injuries.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He assumed that the 1st accused\rquote s complaint of a backache was caused by (invisible) soft tissue injury.
\par 
\par I do not accept the defence contention that Dr. Rickets falsified the report and recorded his finding without talking to or examining the accused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Dr. Rickets was, in my view quite candid about his failure to do a full examination.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 His demeanour showed him to be a witness who was prepared to be truthful even about the limitations of his own examination.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 I accept his evidence that both accused were examined by him, signed the forms in front of him and had no visible injuries nor any complaint.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 His recording of the 1st accused\rquote s complaint of backache reinforces my finding in this regard.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 If Dr. Rickets had fabricated the report in order to exonerate the police, why did he record this complaint?
\par 
\par The Justice of the Peace also said that the accused made no complaint.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
The 2nd accused said he did complain of assault but that the J.P. told him not to complain.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The evidence of the Justice of th
e Peace, in my view has less weight than the evidence of the doctor.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Mr. Singh obviously sees himself as a responsible and senior member of the community who is often asked to do work for government departments and the police.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 I accept that he is an independent person.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
However, an accused person, held in custody at a police station, may not consider him to be independent when an interview is conducted at the police station, surrounded by police officers.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 In those circumstances a Justice of the Peace may simply be seen as part of the \'93establishment.\'94}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 That is particularly so when he is seen by suspects to be drinking yaqona with the police.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 In this case the 2nd accused said he did complain.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
In fact I accept that neither complained, but that in the circumstances, that was unsurprising.
\par 
\par I would however have expected the accused to complain to the Magistrate.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
If there was time to have the charges read and explained to the accused, and the rights of counsel explained, then there was time for the accused to tell the Magistrate of the treatment they had received.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Further, if the 2nd accused had difficulty walking, and had a visible bleeding injury on the jaw, the Magistrate would certainly have recorded what he would have seen, on the court record.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The court record is silent on any such finding.
\par 
\par In all the circumstances I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that there was no assault.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
I do not accept the evidence of Jai Govind in this regard.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
He was contradictory, in the way he said the assault occurred and his story of a sudden setting-upon by the police for no apparent reason, is very difficult to accept.
\par 
\par Finally, I consider the defence case of the assaults and the reason for them, to be entirely irrational.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
If the police intended to obtain signatures on fabricated interviews, why were there so many versions recorded?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
Even if the police theories had changed over time, I see no purpose in the police including all these theories in the accused\rquote s caution interviews.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 Nor can I see any purpose in assaulting accused perso
ns over a period of 4 days to get them to agree to one or more of these versions, when all that would have been required would have been force in the obtaining of the signatures.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The alleged assaults would be pointless if the contents of the interviews were not to be provided by the accused anyway.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The recording of the cross-reference from the 2nd accused\rquote s interview confirms this.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The inaccuracy of the time the 2nd accused gave the answer to Q68, does not point to fabrication.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 It does point to a pooling of
 information, not by the interviewing officer but possibly by other, senior officers, and to a concern that the accused may have been giving false stories to the police.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 In the circumstances, I see nothing sinister about the reference in the 1st accused\rquote s interview to the 2nd accused\rquote s answer.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid16154536 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid16154536 Constitutional Rights
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par I accept that the accused were cautioned and told of their rights to counsel, a social worker or a family member, and that they waived those rights.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 I also accept that they did not want to see family members during interrogation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
There can be no doubt that family members came to visit the accused but the accused themselves said they did not want family members present during interrogation, and the right is one which vests not in the visitors, but in the accused.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid16154536 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid16154536 Conclusion
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the interviews and charge statements were voluntary, obtained in circumstances which were not oppressive and that there were no breaches of Constitutional rights.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 They may be admitted in evidence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689655  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 The question of whether the interviews are true and which version of the events are more reliable, are matters for the assessors, in the context of all the evidence in this case.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8609956 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 Nazhat Shameem
\par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid8609956 JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11689655 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6165191\charrsid11689655 
\par At Suva
\par 9th February 2004
\par }}