At Vusuya a suspect is dead, and three in custody; In Lautoka, a suspect is in hospital after he was confronted

Two separate robberies – one in Nausori and the other in Lautoka – have left one suspect dead and one other admitted in hospital.

The early morning robbery in Vusuya, Nausori, yesterday has left one man dead and three people in Police custody.

The three people are in custody following the death of the suspect allegedly involved in a robbery at the Veiwalai Settlement in Vusuya, Raralevu.

Police chief of intelligence and investigations, ACP Henry Brown said: “Details of what happened to the man will be determined after the post mortem but at the moment three people are in custody for the death of the man.

“The victim was alleged to have been seen illegally entering a home in the area. A neighbour saw what was happening and called on two others to assist in apprehending the victim,” he said.

It is alleged that the robbery suspect was trying to steal building materials at the construction site at Veiwalai Settlement.

A relative of the home owner, Timoci Vulaono, also alleged that building materials worth around $1000 were stolen on Thursday.

“Some of the building materials stolen were an electric saw, extension cords, a cane knife, postal spade, spring spade, hammer, secular saw and an insulation tape,” he alleged.

“This is really frustrating as we just started with the house construction and this has happened.”

It is also alleged that the suspect had used a pinch bar to try and scare off the men who had confronted him about his presence at the scene.

Leba Tuifagalele, who is the wife of one of the three men in custody, said: “It was around 2am when the incident happened; my husband immediately called my brother to help him and see what was happening. When they arrived at the house they saw the man standing at the door with building materials and when he saw them, he tried to hit them with a pinch bar,” she said.

“They were able to hold him down and apprehend him. The Police arrived in Veiwalai Settlement but then it took them long to find the house because they were not familiar with the place.”

Ms Tuifagalele claims the victim was still alive when the Police had arrived.

“House burglary around this area happens nearly every week and this has brought fear to our small community,” she said.

ACP Brown said details concerning the incident in Nausori were still sketchy but they were investigating.

Lautoka incident

Meanwhile, Police said a 21-year-old man is admitted at the Lautoka Hospital after he sustained injuries during an attempted robbery case in Lautoka on Wednesday.

The victim allegedly entered a home and threatened a 47-year-old woman and her 17-year-old-son.

However, the teenager managed to grab a knife and struck the suspect, who later fled the scene.

Police confirmed the suspect was later found unconscious and conveyed to the Lautoka Hospital for treatment.

Police are investigating.

Edited by: Filipe Naigulevu

Feedback:  arieta.vakasukawaqa@fijisun.com.fj