The Supreme Court is expected to hear an appeal next month from several individuals accused in the Fishrot corruption scandal, who are contesting a court order that has resulted in the freezing of their assets.

The appeal was lodged by James Hatuikulipi and two others, following a High Court decision that confirmed a restraint order preventing them from selling or dealing with property linked to the case.

The restraint order was first granted in November 2020, when the High Court temporarily froze the assets while investigations into alleged corruption and money laundering were ongoing. 

The order was later confirmed, allowing it to remain in force until criminal proceedings are finalised.

In their appeal, the accused argue that the investigation used to secure the freezing of their assets was improperly conducted. 

They assert that the Anti-Corruption Commission, not the police, conducted the probe, rendering the restraint order unlawful.

The Prosecutor-General has opposed the appeal, arguing that the law allows her to approach the courts based on investigations conducted by different law enforcement agencies, not only the police.

The High Court agreed with the Prosecutor-General, finding that limiting her powers would undermine efforts to combat organised crime and corruption. 

The Supreme Court will now have the final say on whether the High Court correctly interpreted the law and maintained the restraint order.

The Fishrot case involves allegations of corruption and money laundering within the fishing industry.