Pacific / Fiji

Grace Road cult leader on Interpol red notice remains in Fiji immigration custody

22:49 pm on 18 September 2023

Daniel Kim remains in immigration custody. Photo: Fiji Immigration Sources

Fiji media reports Grace Road Fiji's president Daniel Kim remains in immigration custody after the Lautoka High Court instructed Kim's counsel "to refile an amendment in regards to the judicial review matter where the State is seeking the court to review a 2018 court order stopping Kim from leaving the country".

"As more time has been granted to Kim's counsel to file further material in relation to his Habeas Corpus application, the protection stands and Kim remains in the country," fijivillage.com reported.

"A Writ of Habeas Corpus protects against unlawful and indefinite imprisonment."

According to local media, Kim is being represented by Kings Counsel Simon Ower, Ronald Gordan, Nilesh Prasad and Vasu Pillay, while Solicitor General, Ropate Green Lomavatu is representing the State.

"The Habeas Corpus matter has been adjourned until next Friday while the judicial review matter will be called next Thursday."

Minister for Immigration Pio Tikoduadua revealed last week the Korean government communicated through diplomatic channels on September 21, 2018 that they had nullified the passports of Kim and six other individuals connected with the Grace Road group.

"Red Notices were published by Interpol referring to these individuals as "Fugitives wanted for Prosecution", Tikoduadua said.

FBC News reported that supporters of Kim had gathered outside the court on Monday, holding placards that read "Justice for Kim".

"The strong police presence at the court underlined the significance of the proceedings.

"As Daniel Kim was escorted out in a police vehicle, those who gathered waved flags, showing their continued support," the state broadcaster reported.