News
Two police officers and businessman found guilty of bribery and abuse of office
Posted by Media Team 24 July 2024
Two police officers and a businessman have been found guilty of bribery related charges and abuse of office by the Suva Magistrates Court.
Corporal Samuela Dakuitoga, and Bharat Jogia, a businessman were found guilty of one Count each of Bribery.
Dakuitoga was acquitted of a second count of Bribery.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ifereimi Savou was found guilty of one Count of Abuse of Office.
It is alleged Jogia had given money to a couple as a means to support their child’s education at an overseas institute and an agreement was reached for the repayment of the entire sum.
When attempts to make payment from the couple was proving cumbersome, Jogia instituted civil proceedings against the couple in the High Court as well as lodging a formal complaint to the Fiji Police Force, specifically at the Totogo Police Station.
Dakuitoga, as the investigating officer, was then paid by Jogia a return airfare to Labasa and accommodation whilst he was there as part of the investigation process.
Prior to travelling to Labasa, Dakuitoga had sought approval from Savou to allow Jogia to pay for his airfare and accommodation, which Savou gave approval for.
As a result, Dakuitoga travelled to Labasa and as part of his investigation, he solicited and accepted the sum of $200 and $100 from the husband in exchange for not formally charging him.
In handing out the judgement, Resident Magistrate Jeremaia Savou says as a result, the evidence led on the fourth Count of Bribery is not worthy of acceptance because at no point during the conversation does Dakuitoga solicit any money.
Mr Savou says Dakuitoga was offered by the couple to purchase fish however $100.00 was given instead, according to the transcribed conversation.
The Magistrate says all of the accused in their evidence are suggesting that whatever transpired between them was on account of trying to facilitate and perhaps expedite the investigation.
The matter has now been adjourned to 26 August 2024 for mention to check on filing for sentencing submissions from the prosecution and mitigation from all of the accused or their counsels.
