News

Bribery Case Against Senior Police Officer to Proceed to Trial

Posted by Media Team 18 June 2026

The Suva Magistrates Court has dismissed a No Case to Answer application filed on behalf of George Lagi and ruled that the matter should proceed.

Mr Lagi faces one count of Bribery contrary to the relevant provisions of the Crimes Act.

It is alleged that between 1 October 2012 and 31 January 2014, while employed as an officer with the Criminal Investigations Department, he accepted an advantage of $6,580 from Divindra Bhagat in relation to the performance of his duties as a CID officer.

In a ruling delivered on 18 June 2026, Resident Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne found that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence upon which a properly directed tribunal of fact could convict if that evidence were accepted.

The court therefore found that a prima facie case had been established and dismissed the No Case to Answer application.

Resident Magistrate Somaratne emphasised that the ruling was not a finding of guilt and that the charge remains to be determined after the defence case has been heard.

The matter has been adjourned to 24 June 2026 for mention.

Mr Lagi was represented by Mr Joji Cakau, while FICAC Counsel Ms Tina Narokolevu appeared for the prosecution.