The first state witness in the trial of Naitasiri High Chief Ratu Inoke Takiveikata today revealed what transpired on 2nd November 2000 before former CRW unit members attempted the takeover of Queen Elizabeth Barracks to remove the Military Commander.
Upon cross examination by the State Lawyer, Pita Bulamainaivalu Maciu Turagacati revealed that in November 2000, Captain Shane Stevens called him and told him to be ready with support as they were about to take over the camp.
The witness claimed that he then called Ratu Inoke and told him what Captain Stevens had said and they needed to take supporters to QEB as soon as possible.
He said Ratu Inoke was in Kalabu at the time and later informed the witness that he will be at the Sawani Village Hall.
Turagacati and Jale Kadi went to the village after midday where Ratu Inoke allegedly informed them that he was unable to seek support from Tailevu North.
In the meantime, Stevens and Sergeant Manoa Bolafasio kept calling them asking what was happening and why were the supporters late.
They were told that discussions were underway.
Ratu Inoke then allegedly informed them that he had to go to his farm in Wailase village and the witness also went with Jale Kadi.
At Wailase many people were having lunch and the message was relayed to them that the Qaranivalu allegedly wanted them to go to QEB however they needed transportation.
Turagacati mentioned road upgrades were underway at Sawani Serea where Mosese Nailumu was contacted to provide them with transport however they could not contact him.
They asked another person who said there was no vehicle.
They returned to Qaranivalu's farm in Wailase after 3pm and saw a 4x4 vehicle parked and a person by the name of Rinakama and Ted Young inside a house where people were waiting.
Upon going inside the witness said he realised that their thoughts had changed.
Turagacati said he lost hope as Rinakama and Ted Young told him not to go to QEB and after several calls made to the Qaranivalu for about an hour that afternoon Ratu Inoke allegedly told them not to go to the camp as there were shots being fired.
He said they had to run for their lives as their mission had failed.
Turagacati said they contacted Ratu Inoke but failed.
Ratu Inoke Takiveikata is charged with one count of inciting to mutiny between 6th August and 24th September 2000 where it is alleged that he knowingly incited Captain Shane Stephens and Sergeant Manoa Bolafasio to unlawfully take over the Queen Elizabeth Barracks.
The case will continue on Monday at 9.30am where the defence counsel will cross examine Turagacati.
Story by: Ronal Deo
