Kaniva News has learned that the Nuku’alofa Supreme Court has sealed the verdict in the high-profile cocaine case involving Tevita Kolokihakaufisi.
The 39-year-old was arrested after authorities discovered more than 15 kilograms of cocaine.
The drugs were allegedly found in quantities at both his residence and his workplace—the National Reserve Bank of Tonga.
Following inquiries made by Kaniva News, the Court Registrar confirmed that a court order is in place prohibiting any media publication or public disclosure of the court’s decision.
In reference to our original report, we wish to clarify that the advice from the Registrar did not suggest that the Court would provide an order explaining the reasons for sealing the judgment.
We would like to emphasise the following clarification:
“While the sealed judgment cannot be released, the Registrar advised that Kaniva News may formally request a separate order confirming the non-publication aspect only. This does not include any explanation for the sealing of the judgment.”
