Parties are preparing to begin the trial of Anare Vuli Cilicewa, charged with the murder of Shabreen Shain Ali, which occurred in Raiwaqa, Suva, in 2024. The High Court in Suva will host the proceedings starting in April 2026, presided over by Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu.
Cilicewa is alleged to have fatally stabbed Ali during a tumultuous argument, followed by actions that ultimately resulted in her death. Earlier court sessions revealed that the prosecution intends to present a total of 29 witnesses, including a key pathologist, to strengthen their case. The trial will center around the critical question of the identity of the assailant, an issue acknowledged by both the prosecution and the defense.
Currently, Cilicewa remains in custody while the case awaits a scheduled adjournment on January 19, 2026. This timeline provides both parties with necessary time for preparation as they navigate the complex legal proceedings. The community looks forward to justice being served in this unfortunate incident, with a collective hope that the truth will come to light.