Results for From the Courts

British Barrister, Malcom Bishop KC, officially assumed office as the new Lord Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Tonga and President of the Land Court on 2 September 2024.

Viliami Lokotui (31) was sentenced to two and a half years imprisonment with the final six months suspended for charges that included possession of 2.69 grams of methamphetamine, at a residence in Malapo.

Isiah Takau (39) from Ma’ufanga was sentenced to serve a total of three years and nine months imprisonment for possession of 11.94 grams of methamphetamine and cultivation of 10 cannabis plants committed in two separate occasions. He also committed the second offence while on bail.

Manley Manu Soakai Palu (25) was sentenced to three years imprisonment, with a portion suspended, for three counts of causing bodily injury to a couple and their two year old daughter, while driving under the influence of alcohol. “The public must be protected from people who drink and drive,” stated the Judge.

Kepueli Christopher Mafi (32) was sentenced to four and a half years imprisonment for dangerous driving causing the death of ‘Ahotau Taufu’i, who was walking on the side of the road at Nualei, in the early morning of 20 November 2022. The accused drove off, while the victim’s body was found by others.

Repeat drugs offender, Jitendra Singh was sentenced to four and a half years imprisonment for possession of 141.13 grams of methamphetamine and $32,050 pa'anga seized in Ngele’ia. This was in addition to 21 months prison term he was already serving for a previous drug offending.

The Supreme Court in Nuku’alofa sentenced ‘Okona ‘One’one (31) to four years imprisonment, with some part suspended, for charges including possession of 5.04 grams of methamphetamine at his home address in ‘Anana. The possession of scales and over 540 dealer-bags made it clear this was possession with intent to supply; so far more serious than simple possession, stated the judge.

Siosina Vakasiuola (30) was found guilty on two charges of obtaining money by false pretences, when she received $47,000 from two customers, who signed contracts with her for the importation of vehicles, which never materialized. “Miss Vakasiuola was not a convincing witness and I conclude that she has lied to the Court," stated the judge.

The National Reserve Bank of Tonga has been prohibited from publicly disseminating their directions, contained in a letter sent to the Tonga Development Bank on 17 May and 20 May, which was allegedly leaked in a radio broadcast. The Supreme Court of Tonga, Civil Jurisdiction, has granted the Tonga Development Bank (the Plaintiff/Applicant) leave for a judicial review. Among other things, the TDB is alleging possible damage to the reputations of the CEO Mrs Emeline Tuita and TDB Board Chairman Mr. Penisimani Vea.