Fiji businessman Jesal Jedav granted bail to leave Australia while preparing to fight assault charges in court
A Fijian businessman was locked out of Australia by Covid restrictions for two years after launching an international travel agency: when he returned, he was arrested. Find out why.
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A Fijian businessman arrested moments after arriving in Australia was unaware a warrant had been out for his arrest for almost three years, a court has learned.
Jesal Jadav, 35, pleaded not guilty at Parramatta Local Court on Thursday to domestic violence-related assault occasioning bodily harm and damaging property following an incident in early-2020.
Jadav, who resides in Fiji, had been in Sydney for the launch of the Australian branch of a travel agency he runs with his Kellyville-based cousin, his lawyer told the court.
On February 29, Jadav is alleged to have assaulted a woman at a Casula hotel.
Only a day later, he departed the country for his native Fiji.
“Jadav wasn’t aware the complainant had called the police and flew out,” Jadav’s lawyer said.
“He was in Australia on a visitor visa, and comes often for business.
“But, due to Covid restrictions he was unable to come back.”
On January 25, Jadav returned to Australia, but was detained at Sydney airport.
“He was quite shocked,” his lawyer said.
“The complaint is three years old. He would have returned had he known about it.
“He cannot afford to have criminal charges, he needs to be able to visit Australia for work.”
Jadav was in a relationship with the alleged victim prior to his departure, his lawyer said.
After eight months together, the relationship broke down and Jadav decided to leave Australia.
“Jadav wanted to leave, but she didn’t want him to go,” his lawyer said.
“Although he has been charged with assault, it falls on the lower end of seriousness.
“It is a push with a closed fist on the arm.
“The police facts show he left the premises immediately after.”
Jadav has no criminal history in Fiji or Australia, his lawyer said.
In order to continue working, Jadav’s lawyer said Jadav would need to retain his passport.
A representative for the police warned Jadav might not return should be granted bail to leave Australia.
Nonetheless, Magistrate Rob Rabbidge granted bail, but warned Jadav to return to court.
“We are not holding you to remain in Australia,” he said.
“But, if you want to protect your good name, you ought to come back.”
Jadav’s business partner provided funds to assure Jadav’s compliance.
He will return to Liverpool Local Court later this year.
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