By Linny Folau

‘Uluakimano Lokotui received a suspended sentence for possession of arms and ammunition without a license, in his sentencing in the Fasi Magistrates Court on 7 March.

Magistrate Loupua Pahulu Kuli sentenced him to 10 months imprisonment, which was fully suspended for two years on conditions. The accused was found in possession of a 12 gauge shotgun, three 12 gauge ammunition and 14 .22 blanks in June 2024, when his vehicle was searched by Police officers, at a residence in Tatakamotonga.

From the Prosecution’s summary of facts on 7 June, 2024 Police went to the home of a co-accused Afeitaulalo Hufanga to check his curfew. The accused among others were at this residence and where illicit drugs were seized. This led to the search of the house and the property.

The lower court heard that when police officers proceeded to search 'Uluakimano’s vehicle. he was asked by Officer Fifita who the vehicle belonged to and he said that it belonged to his brother, Lisala Lokotui. The Police also asked for his licence but he said he did not have one.

Two officers took the firearm from the vehicle, unloaded it, and found one 12-gauge bullet. The firearm was identified to be a 12-gauge Winchester break single-load shotgun, serial. It was placed in the front passenger's seat when the Police found it.

Officer Fifita also found a black sock in the front passenger seat which contained two 12-gauge bullets. Moreover, in between the front seats, another Officer Tafea found one cup containing 14 blank bullets. In the same place, Officer Mafi found one plastic bowl which contained one empty .22 ammunition magazine.

Officer Fifita then reminded 'Uluakimano of his rights before he asked him who the firearm and bullets found in the vehicle belonged to. 'Uluakimano answered that it all belonged to someone else. He was then arrested for possession of arms and ammunition without a licence. 

Meanwhile, the Magistrate stated that the accused changed his plea to guilty and asked for mercy. Although he had a previous criminal conviction in 2023, it was for traffic offences.

The Magistrate stated that although these were serious offences, she deemed it was appropriate that the accused be given a full suspended sentence and have the opportunity to change his life away from crimes.

He was then sentenced to 10 months imprisonment fully suspended for two years on conditions. This included not committing any offence punishable by imprisonment. He must also carry out 100 hours of community service. She also ordered that the arms and ammunition be forfeited to Police.