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{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 APPELLATE JURISDICTION}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3236065 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3236065\charrsid3236065 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid3236065 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO: HAA}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6433689 0}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid3236065 022 OF 2004S \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid5991878 Between:}{\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid5991878 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 SALACIELI TEKURU}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid4933199 and RUSIATE LEVULA}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Appellants \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid9323635 And:}{\caps\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid9323635 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 THE STATE \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Respondent \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par Hearing:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 19th April 2004 \par Judgment:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 23rd April 2004 \par \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Counsel:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Appellants in Person \par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Mr. D. Prasad}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 for State}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid4933199 \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 \f2\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The Appellants appeal against their convictions and sentences in respect of the following charge:}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid4933199 \par \par }\pard \s16\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6433689 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Statement of Offence \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6433689 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 LARCENY FROM PERSON:}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Contrary to section 271 of the Penal Code, Act. 17.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6433689 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Particulars of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6433689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 MALAKAI JEKE VAKARARAWA, SALICIELI TEKURU and RUSIATE LEVULA, on the 25th day of January, 2002 at Samabula in the Central Division, stole a purse valued $200.00, one gold chain valued $800.00, one pair gold earring valued $200.00, one driving licence valu ed $33.00 and cash of $130.00, to the total value of $1,363.00 from the person of MANJULA SINGH d/o BABU RAM. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par They were the second and third defendants in the lower court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The 1st defendant pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 3\'bd years imprisonment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The tri al commenced on the 8th of July 2003.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Manjula Singh gave evidence that on 25th January 2002 at 6.45pm she was at the Superfresh ATM machine withdrawing cash when someone came from behind and grabbed her purse.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 It contained $130 cash, a broken chain, and a pair of earring, together with her driver\rquote s licence, FNPF card and Fiji Care card.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Her son tried to stop the person who had taken the purse but he slipped away.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 She described the person as a young Fijian boy.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Under cross}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 examination she said that she had s een neither of the two Appellants that night. \par \par PW2, Mafilio Sovaki was on her way to Superfresh at the same time when she saw a white taxi parked in front of her driveway driven by an Indian boy.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 A Fijian girl and two Fijian boys got into the taxi.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 She recognised the driver and the Fijian girl.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 She saw one of the boys in the taxi signal to someone in the Superfresh car park, and she saw a boy at the ATM grab the purse and run down the short}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 cut.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The taxi went down towards Mead Road.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 She agreed that the two accused had not taken the purse.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 In response to the court\rquote s questioning, she said that both Appellants were in the white taxi and she had identified them at the police station. \par \par PW3, Cpl. Vilitati gave evidence that on the 25th of January 2002, he was waiting outside Superfresh while his wife was shopping inside when he heard a woman yelling at the top of her voice.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He asked a van driver to help him apprehend the suspect.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He knew that the suspect had run down the short cut so he went to Vunakece Road and he saw a taxi pulling slowly out of Tuisowaqa Road.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The suspect was running with his head through the taxi window.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The van driver blocked the road and PW3 took the Appellants to the Samabula Police Station with the other suspect.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He said he knew the Appellants well. \par \par PW4 was the taxi driver, Shiri Ram.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He said that on the 25th of January 2002, he was driving his taxi when he picked up a girl and three boys at the Sukanaivalu junction.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The two Appellants were present.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He took them to Superfresh where the three boys got off.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 PW4 went to Kavu Place and Tuisowaqa Road with the girl (the remaining passenger) when she asked him to return to Superfresh.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The two Appellants were standing near a hedge on the main road and re}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199 -}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 boarded the taxi.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 They told PW4 to drive fast down Vunakece Road, take a turn at Tuisowaqa Road and stop the taxi there for the third boy to re}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 board the taxi.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He followed their instructions, but just as the boy was about to board the taxi, he was pulled away by the police and taken to the Namadi Police Post.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Under cross}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 examination, he said that he was receiving instructions from the girl and from the 2nd Appellant. \par \par PW5 was Police Constable Sakenasa, who interviewed the 1st Appellant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He admitted being in PW5\rquote s taxi that day but said that a boy boarded the taxi suddenly at Namadi Heights and was arrested by police.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He said he did not know that boy and had nothing to do with the stealing of the purse. \par \par The 2nd Appellant was interviewed by Police Constable Navitalai.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He said that he did not know the bo y who got into their taxi and had nothing to do with the theft. \par \par Both Appellants gave sworn evidence which was consistent with their police interviews.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The 2nd Appellant under cross}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 examination appears to have fared badly.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 He was asked }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 You were part of the offence?}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 and he answered: }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 I may be part of it but it was not a planned job.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par \par DW3 was Malakai Vakararawa, who said that he stole from the lady but did not know the two Appellants.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Under cross}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 examination he said that he was in court to support his friends because they did not know anything. \par \par In her judgment, the learned Magistrate said that the prosecution case was supported by the defence case in that the Appellants did not deny being in the taxi.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 She said that she accepted the evidence of PW2, PW3 and PW4 and found that the Appellants had aided DW3 to commit the offence.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 She convicted both Appellants and sentenced them to 3 years imprisonment to run from the day of remand. \par \par The Appellants\rquote appeals are very similar and may be summarised thus: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 1. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 PW4\rquote s evidence was uncorroborated and he was an accomplice. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 2. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 There was no evidence of planning. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 3. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 There was no evidence of mens rea. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 4. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The learned Magistrate failed to consider that the caution interviews were consistent with the defence. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 5. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The sentence was harsh and excessive. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par In court the Appellants made oral and presented written submissions to the effect that there was insufficient evidence to show their complicity in the crime alleged. \par \par The State opposes the appeal saying that there was sufficient evidence to warrant the convictions and that the sentences were within the tariff.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid4933199 \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid10229712 The conviction \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par It is clear from the way the prosecution was run, that the Appellants were alleged to be accomplices to the principal offender, who had actually snatched the bag.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The only real issue at the trial was whether the Appellant\rquote s presence at the scene was mere coincidence, or part of a plan to steal PW1\rquote s purse.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 There was indeed no direct evidence that the Appellants were part of the criminal enterprise.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The evidence pointing to a previous plan, was circumstantial.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 It is unfortunate that the learned Magistrate did not refer to the law on circumstantial evidence in her judgment.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The law is that where the prosecution relies on circumstantial evidence to pr ove its case, the accused can only be found guilty if the only reasonable inference the court can draw from the set of circumstances, is the guilt of the accused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 There must be no other available and reasonable inference which is equally consistent with the accused\rquote s innocence, and the court must be satisfied of the accused\rquote s guilt beyond reasonable doubt. \par \par In }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid10229712 Amina Begum Koya v. The State}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Crim. App. AAU0011 of 1996 the Court of Appeal adopted the following passage from }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid10229712 Shepherd v. R}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 (1990) 170 CL R as a useful summary on the correct approach in cases of circumstantial evidence: \par \par }\pard\plain \s19\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 \f2\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 "}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Circumstantial evidence is evidence of a basic fact or facts from which the jury is asked to infer a further fact or facts.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 It is traditionally contrasted with direct or t estimonial evidence, which is the evidence of a person who witnessed the event sought to be proved.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The inference which the jury may actually be asked to make in a case turning upon circumstantial evidence may simply be that of the guilt of the accused.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 However, in most, if not all, cases, that ultimate inference must be drawn from some intermediate factual conclusion, whether identified expressly or not.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Proof of an intermediate fact will depend upon the evidence, usually a body of individual items of evid ence, and it may itself be a matter of inference.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 More than one intermediate fact may be identifiable; indeed the number will depend to some extent upon how minutely the elements of the crime in question are dissected, bearing in mind that the ultimate bur den which lies upon the prosecution is the proof of those elements.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 For example, with most crimes it is a necessary fact that the accused was present when the crime was committed.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 But it may be possible for a jury to conclude that the accused was guilty as a matter of inference beyond reasonable doubt from evidence of opportunity, capacity and motive without expressly identifying the intermediate fact that the accused was present when the crime was committed. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 On the other hand, it may sometimes be necessar y or desirable to identify those intermediate facts which constitute indispensable links in a chain of reasoning towards an inference of guilt.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Not every possible intermediate conclusion of fact will be of that character.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 If it is appropriate to identify a n intermediate fact as indispensable it may well be appropriate to tell the jury that that fact must be found beyond reasonable doubt before the ultimate inference can be drawn.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 But wher}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 e -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 to use the metaphor referred to by Wigmore on Evidence, vol. 9 (Chadbourn rev. 1981), par 2497, pp 412}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 414 -}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 the evidence consists of strands in a cable rather than links in a chain, it will not be appropriate to give such a warning.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 It should not be given in any event where it would be unnecessary or confusing to do so.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 It will generally be sufficient to tell the jury that the guilt of the accused must be established beyond reasonable doubt and, where it is helpful to do so, to tell them that they must entertain such a doubt where any other inference consistent with inno cence is reasonably open on the evidence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 (per Dawson J) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 \f2\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 If the case is one where the evidence consists of strands in a cable rather than links in a chain, then all the court must do is satisfy itself of the guilt of the accused on all the evidence.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 This was a case of }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 "}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 strands in a cable}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 "}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 , the prosecution relying on presence at the scene, behaviour of the taxi, the signal at the carpark and the thief\rquote s own sprint to the apparently waiting taxi containing the two Appellants.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The question for the learned Ma gistrate was to consider whether on all of this evidence, she was satisfied of the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt, and whether there was any other inference consistent with innocence, reasonably open on the evidence. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par The circumstantial evidence in this case, assuming that one accepts the evidence of the witnesses for the prosecution was: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 1. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 PW2\rquote s evidence that the people in the white taxi signalled to the principal offender at the ATM machine just before the offence was committed. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 2. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 PW2\rquote s evidence that the principal offender ran down the short cut and the taxi went to Mead Road at the same time. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 3. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 PW3\rquote s evidence that the principal offender was trying to get into the same white taxi at Tuisowaqa Road. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 4. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 PW4\rquote s evidence that the two Appellants got into the taxi near Superfresh and told him to drive fast to Tuisowaqa Road. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 5. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 That they told him to allow the principal offender to get into the taxi. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10229712 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10229712 6. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 That the Appellants admitted being in the taxi. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4933199 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par The learned Magistrate did not ask if the only reasonable inference to be drawn from these facts, was the guilt of the accused.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Nor did she refer anywhere in her judgment, to the burden and standard of proof.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 This is not necessarily fatal as long as the wording of the judgment shows that the court was aware of the burden of proof and was directing itself about it.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 Unfortunately, the judgment does not display any such awareness and there is a reference (at page 30 of the record) to the accused failing }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991878 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 to exonerate themselves}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5991878 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 which suggests that the burden of proving innocence was on the accused. \par \par Finally, the learned Magistrate needed to direct herself on the law on secondary offenders.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The prosecution case was that the Appellants aided and abetted the principal offender to commit the offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The learned Magistrate needed to be satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that they did something positive to assist the thief, and did so realising that the offence would be committed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 It was held in }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid5991878 R v. Powell}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 and }{ \i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid5991878 anor; R v. English}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 (1999) AC 1, that a secondary party is guilty, for instance, of murder, if he participates in a joint venture realising that the principal might commit the offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 An aider and abetter will rarely share the same mens rea as the principal.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 What must be proved is an intention to render assistance knowing that the other may commit the offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 She also needed to consider the evidence against each Appellant separately to be satisfied that the presence of each in the car was in order to further the criminal enterprise and was not accidental. \par \par The judgment is silent on the law on secondary offenders and on the mens rea required to be proved for aiders and abetters. \par \par In all the circumstances I consider that the combination of all these errors of law must lead to a quashing of the conviction.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The appeals against convictions succeed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 The convictions are quashed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid4933199 \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid5991878 Result \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par On the basis of the strength of the prosecution case and despite the 2 year delay since the commission of the alleged offence, I consider that a retrial is justified.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid591492\charrsid4933199 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 I order a retrial before another magistrate. \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6433689 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid6433689 Nazhat Shameem}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4933199\charrsid6433689 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5991878 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid5991878 JUDGE \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5991878 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6433689 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10167259\charrsid4933199 At Suva \par 23rd April 2004 \par }}