Eight men responsible for Toni Langilangi’s tragic death are now facing sentencing as they await the court’s decision on the consequences of their actions.
Tevita Lisiate, Mesui Finau, Mafua ‘i Vaha Palu, Moana Masima, Lisiate Evirn Vea, Salamani Filikitonga, Siosifa Vatuvei and Viliami Tongamana entered guilty pleas to common assault charges laid over the death of Mr Langilangi in Nuku’alofa.
The convictions come after a brawl in the centre of Nuku’alofa in the early hours of 17 September 2023.
The conflict arose between two groups of opposing young men, one from the town of Ha’ateiho and the other from Pahu.
Most of the accused hail from Ha’ateiho, while Finau is from Fo’ui. Palu comes from Pahu and Filikitonga from ‘Utulangivaka, Vava’u.
The deceased from Pahu suffered injuries and died shortly afterwards.
“It is asserted, and not challenged, that the deceased died of a preexisting condition and that the injuries he sustained did not cause or contribute to his death”, the court was told.
Mr Bishop said: “That strikes me as an extraordinarily surprising conclusion but that is the unchallenged medical evidence, and I must deal with the case as it is presented.
“It goes without saying that had there been evidence that the blows and kicks which the deceased suffered was a substantial cause of death then far more serious allegations would have been made.”
