Royal Navy First for Solomon Islands Ends in Jail for Sickening Rape
Sebastine Kava Liliu, the first-ever Solomon Islander to join the Royal Navy and once praised by Princess Anne, has been locked up for six years after raping a drunken 19-year-old woman near a Portsmouth nightclub.
Predatory Sailor Lures Victim from Nightclub
Portsmouth Crown Court was told how Kava Liliu stalked The Astoria nightclub, spending two and a half hours hunting for vulnerable, drunk women. He zeroed in on his victim, bought her a double tequila despite her being visibly intoxicated, and persuaded her to leave with him in the early hours of February 11.
Just yards from the club, the ‘opportunistic’ sailor dragged the young woman into the bushes and brutally raped her. He later admitted the rape charge in court.
From Royal Glory to Courtroom Shame
Back in April last year, Kava Liliu proudly met Princess Anne during a Passing Out Parade at HMS Raleigh—celebrated as the first Solomon Islander in the Royal Navy with a gleaming service record. But his naval glory couldn’t shield him from the consequences of his horrifying crime.
Judge Slams Sailor for Causing “Severe Psychological Harm”
Judge Michael Bowes KC condemned Kava Liliu, calling him ‘opportunistic’ and handing down a six-year prison sentence. The judge emphasised the profound and lasting psychological damage the victim suffered. “You targeted a drunk and vulnerable woman for your own sexual gratification,” said Judge Bowes.
Victim’s Heartbreaking Statement
The victim, who remains anonymous, described the attack as “malicious and cruel” and said she has “lost her dignity” and struggles with sleepless nights and fear of being outside alone in the dark. In her statement, she said: “I no longer feel comfortable in my own skin. You took my trust in the world, but you did not take my voice away.”
Defence Claims “Lack of Maturity” but Sailor Sorry
Kava Liliu’s lawyer claimed his client was “remorseful” and that this behaviour was “out of character.” Kava Liliu himself described the rape as “horrible, disgusting, and embarrassing” in a letter of apology to the victim.
He will serve four years in prison before spending the final two years on licence. Reports suggest he plans to return to the Solomon Islands once released.
