By Linny Folau

Severe lacerations were examined on the heads of murder victims Mr Feng Sheng Pei and Mrs Su Jie Wen, when their bodies were brought into Vaiola Hospital, on February 25, 2018, according to medical evidence presented at the murder trial of Sitiveni ‘Esi Muli (17) today in the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court.

The deceased couple were found with multiple stab wounds at a vegetable plantation at Matafonua, Tongatapu.

The trial against Sitiveni ‘Esi Muli (17) charged with their murders continued today with expert evidence from doctors. One of them was Dr Tavo, who was working in the Emergency Unit when the bodies of the couple arrrived at hospital.

During her evidence in chief led by the Crown Prosecutor ‘Aminiasi Kefu, the doctor said when the victims were brought in they were already dead. She carried out examinations and made a report of the injuries.

The Nuku'alofa Supreme Court heard that the examination of Ms Wen, found lacerations on her head with the skull was exposed, as well as deep lacerations on her neck that was likely caused by something sharp, and another laceration on her upper back. 

The doctor noted the likely cause of death was due to severe internal head injuries, with the multiple serious lacerations to her head and back.

The examination of Mr Pei, found lacerations on his head with the skull exposed, lacerations on the right side of his neck and his left arm wounded and fractured. The likely cause of death was from severe internal head injuries, with contribution from other wounds.

Dr Tavo said she then requested CT Scans for both victims to confirm their internal injuries.

The trial then continued to hear the evidence of Dr Siale ‘Akau’ola, CEO of the Ministry of Health, in the afternoon. He gave evidence on a pathologist's report, because the pathologist who made the report had returned to Fiji, after completion of contact last year.

The murder trial is expected to continue next week.