The Suva Magistrates Court recently addressed the case concerning Elite Protection Security, whose operations have come to a standstill due to the seizure of licensing documents by the State. Jone Vakarisi and three co-defendants face charges related to criminal trespass and the alleged illegal operation of a security firm.
During the hearing, the defense argued that the confiscation of original licensing documents as evidence has hindered the company’s ability to operate and seek a master license from the Ministry of Defence. This disruption has persisted for several months, significantly impacting the business.
The defense highlighted a letter filed in October that requested reconciliation and a prompt response; however, they argued that the State has been slow to act. They stressed that after the necessary photocopies were made, the originals should have been returned, and their retention is a key factor affecting the security firm’s ability to function.
Conversely, the State maintained that the original documents were legally seized, crucial for the prosecution’s case, and therefore cannot be released at this stage. While the court recognized the adverse effects of this situation on the business, it indicated that it lacks the power to mandate the return of original evidence.
Nevertheless, the court proposed that the State might consider providing copies of the documents to help enable limited operational capabilities for the firm, suggesting a potential way forward amidst ongoing challenges. The case has been adjourned until January 28, with bail conditions for the defendants extended. This scenario underscores the sometimes complex intersection of legal proceedings and business continuity, raising hopes for a resolution that will allow Elite Protection Security to resume its activities soon.