A 24-year-old Fijian man, Ilaisa Tanoa Degei, has been granted bail after being charged with rape and sexual assault against a Virgin Australia flight attendant on New Year’s Day. The incident occurred in Nadi, where the 21-year-old woman was celebrating the New Year with her colleagues. Degei appeared before the Lautoka High Court, seeking bail, which was approved under strict conditions, including a surety of $1500. He must reside in his village, cannot change his address without court permission, and is prohibited from leaving Fiji. The court case is set to reconvene on 24 February for a plea mention.
The Australian government has issued safety advice for travellers to Fiji, highlighting a low overall risk but noting that crime, including violent acts and sexual assaults, does occur. Their Smartraveller website states that most crimes tend to be opportunistic, with higher risks present in urban areas and during nighttime.