EXCLUSIVE
Two young Australian men who died mysteriously in Vietnam had extensive criminal records, including a string of drug and violence charges.
Vincent Satuala Atulia, 24, and Andrew Colivas, 25, from Melbourne, were on holiday with friends in South East Asia when they died unexpectedly last week.
Devastated relatives confirmed the deaths of both on social media and friends started fundraising campaigns to help bring their bodies home.
Daily Mail Australia can reveal that both men were convicted criminals who had been in and out of court for the past five years.
Court records obtained by Daily Mail Australia show Atulia, who is a fellow motorcyclist, has been ordered to appear in court 78 times since 2019, while Colivas has 12 court appearances dating back to 2021.
Atulia’s charges relate to 12 different matters, including driving offences, affray, theft, fishing and breach of court conditions.
His most recent matter was filed in court on August 2, just three weeks before his death.
Colivas has been charged on seven separate occasions with offences relating to driving, disorderly conduct, drugs, boating and refusing to obey authorities. He last appeared in court in September last year.
Vincent Atulia, 24, died in Vietnam last Saturday
The family of Melbourne man Andrew Colivas (pictured) announced his death on Monday
In June 2020, Atulia was involved in a shooting at a house in Ferntree Gully in Melbourne’s east while on bail for a previous offence.
Atulia and a group of men, including Rebels biker Scott Rye, travelled to the home, where one of the men’s ex-girlfriends lived, and fired shots into the upper floor of the property before fleeing the scene.
No one was injured in the shooting and Atulia, along with four others, later pleaded guilty to affray. Atulia also pleaded guilty to bail jumping and spent 35 days in jail.
Asked by the magistrate how he had enjoyed his time in prison, Atulia told the court he found it “boring”, the Herald Sun reported at the time.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to the family of a man who died in Vietnam, as well as three other Australians, The Herald Sun reported.
The reason for the men’s deaths is unknown.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted DFAT for further comment.
The men’s families have set up separate online fundraising campaigns to cover the upcoming costs of their repatriations and funerals.
Mr. Colivas’ petition has already raised more than $35,000, while Mr. Atulia’s has raised more than $52,000.
Vincent Satuala Atulia (pictured) was travelling with friends in Vietnam when he died unexpectedly.
Mr. Atulia’s family described him as a deeply religious young man who dedicated his life to his family and friends.
He was also the sole breadwinner for his family.
“He was the epitome of great excellence. A generous-hearted young man who always cared about others before himself,” they wrote.
‘Most who knew Vincent knew that family and God were always the central purpose of everything he did in his short life.
‘He gave his life to provide for and protect his beloved family.
‘Vincent was a faithful member of St Agatha’s Parish in Cranbourne, an aspiring rugby player with the Casey Warriors rugby league team, a loyal and dedicated employee of MC Labour Hire and an active member of CFMEU/CFMEU Pasifika.’
Mr Atulia’s sister, Miriama, also took to social media to share a personal tribute.
“You made your family very proud with the life you lived, the support and protection you gave us, everything you provided for us, money, food, clothing and shelter,” she wrote.
‘You did more than any brother could do for a family, you were always there for us when we needed you.
‘You always had our backs when something happened, you always arrived on time when I called you, you never stopped protecting our family, especially our parents.’
A relative of Andrew Colivas posted this tribute on Facebook two days ago
His brother, Douglas, added: “The day I lost my brother, my everything, my right hand, my leader. I still wake up hoping it wasn’t true.
‘I wish I could hear your voice and see your face one last time, there are no words that can describe the pain.
‘I lost my brother who taught me everything I know and made me who I am today, without you I am lost brother.
‘We’re supposed to grow old together and watch you succeed in life, achieve your goals and lead by example.’
Mr. Colivas was also remembered as a religious family man and a talented athlete with a passion for boxing.
“He tragically lost his life in Vietnam and it will be a long process to bring him home,” the family wrote.
‘He was a kind, generous and selfless person who loved his family, friends and everything he attempted in life.
‘Andrew was someone who would go out of his way to help and protect anyone.
‘He was a dedicated member of the St. Gregory Orthodox Church and was devoted to his faith.
‘We pray for strength during this time of grief. May God bring you back home safely to us.’
