11 crew members and the captain of a passenger vessel who are charged with one count of each of illegal transportation of marijuana and one count each of unlawful possession of marijuana have been granted bail by the Suva Magistrates Court.

Akuila Cama who is the boat captain, Sailosi Bure who is the chief engineer, chief mate Samuela Kelepi, Inoke Matavesi,  Sekaia Sokomuri, Rafaele Nakavulevu, Garville Qeranatabua, Marika Baro, Ned Murray, Alifereti Senikuraciri, Josifiliti Baleinayau, and Joji Vuniwai appeared before Magistrate Jioji Boseiwaqa today.

It is alleged that they unlawfully transported 1.8 kilograms of marijuana from Kadavu to Suva on the 9th of this month.

It is also alleged that they were found in possession of 1.8 kilograms of marijuana on the same day.

Joji Vuniwai faces a further count of unlawful possession of marijuana as he was allegedly found with 3.3 grams of marijuana.

Their lawyer, Tanya Waqanika asked for bail as she informed court that the men were sailing for Kadavu tomorrow.

Prosecution did not object to bail however asked if strict bail conditions can be imposed.

Magistrate Boseiwaqa says that the tariff for the offence is 3 to 7 years.

He has told the men not to re-offend and also not to interfere with witnesses and surrender their travel documents.

The case has been adjourned to 2nd April.