Murder accused Rihaal Kumar has been ordered by the High Court to be confined in St Giles Hospital for psychiatric treatment for a period of three months.

In his ruling and order, Judge Justice Daniel Goundar postponed the proceeding until such time as the Court is satisfied that the accused is fit to plead and stand trial.

Kumar is accused for the death of Sharuf Shaakir Khan at a Suva apartment complex in July, 2025.

According to psychiatric evaluation, Kumar is presently of unsound mind so that he is incapable of making a proper defence at trial.

The medical assessmen concludes that the accused is suffering from mental illness, likely schizophrenia, and requires immediate psychiatric treatment with medications and counselling.

The order is pursuant to section 104 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2009 and in accordance with the Mental Health Act 2010.

Justice Goundar ordered that the Medical Superintendent at St Giles Hospital keep the accused under medical observation and supervision and to provide such psychiatric treatment and counselling as is medically indicated.

The court has also ordered a comprehensive psychiatric reassessment before the end of the three-month period.

A report must be submitted to the High Court detailing Kumar’s mental state, his response to treatment, and whether he is fit to stand trial.

Justice Goundar also ordered that the psychiatric report is to be filed on or before 26th June this year.

This matter has been adjourned for mention to 30th June for consideration of the psychiatric report and for such further orders as may be necessary.

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