The Supreme Court of Fiji recently adjusted the prison sentences of two individuals involved in the aggravated robbery and abduction of a taxi driver, while dismissing one of the men’s attempts to appeal his conviction. Justices Anthony Gates, Brian Keith, and Terence Arnold delivered their ruling on October 30, 2025, pertaining to the case of Asesela Naureure and Moape Rokoraicebe, who were found guilty for the crimes committed in November 2016.
During the judgment, Justice Keith underscored the unique vulnerabilities faced by taxi drivers in Fiji, emphasizing the need for strong protective measures within the judicial system. He stated, “Taxi drivers are one of the most vulnerable groups of people in Fiji,” noting that they often carry cash and could be targeted by criminals, thus calling for severe penalties for those who commit crimes against them.
Despite the gravity of the offenses, the Supreme Court determined that the sentences handed down by lower courts were excessively lengthy, ruling that a “substantial and grave injustice” would transpire if the appeals against their sentences were not granted. Consequently, while Naureure’s request to contest his conviction was denied, both Naureure and Rokoraicebe were granted the opportunity to appeal their sentences.
In a significant development, the Supreme Court has set new sentences for both men. Naureure will now serve 10 years and 7 months in prison, with a non-parole period of 8 years and 7 months, whereas Rokoraicebe’s revised sentence is 10 years and 5 months, with a non-parole period of 8 years and 5 months. Previously, Naureure had received a 13-year sentence from the High Court, and Rokoraicebe had been sentenced to 12 years to commence upon his arrest.
This case resonates with recent judicial efforts to address the increasing dangers faced by taxi drivers and other public transport providers, as seen in a related case involving three young men who received suspended sentences for a violent robbery against a taxi driver. That particular ruling emphasized the importance of rehabilitation for first-time offenders while still upholding the need for a strong judicial response to violent crimes.
Overall, these cases highlight the complexities of justice in addressing violent crimes while offering a glimmer of hope for reform and rehabilitation for offenders, suggesting that with the right support, positive change is indeed possible. The judicial system appears committed not only to holding individuals accountable for their actions but also towards community safety and the well-being of vulnerable workers such as taxi drivers.