Alcohol abuse has been linked to an attack which allegedly killed Peni Nayacadruta, 61, turaga-ni-koro (village headman) of Burebasaga, Rewa.

He was allegedly attacked by three drunken men on Sunday. They are now in Police custody.

Sakeasi Rabitu, younger brother of Mr Nayacadruta, said the drinking of alcohol and home brew was becoming a major problem in the village.

Mr Rabitu claimed the three men were making a lot of noises. He went to them and told them they were breaking the village by-law.

He said he told them to take their drinks away from the village. They then turned on him and attacked him.

His brother was notified so he came to the scene and said they should stop drinking and making noises. He was then allegedly attacked too. Mr Rabitu said his brother was asthmatic.

“He was punched in the chest. He staggered a few metres and collapsed,” Mr Rabitu claimed.

Mr Rabitu said  Mr Nayacadruta was pronounced dead on arrival at Wainibokasi Hospital.

Deceased Peni Nacadruta, the village headman of Burebasaga Village in Rewa. Photo Courtesy: Sakeasi Rabitu

He described Mr Nayacadruta as a happy person who used to sort out problems in the village. Mr Rabitu said his brother hardly reported any issue to the Police.

In this case he was asked to report the matter to the Police  but he didn’t. Mr Nayacadruta had only a few months left to complete his five-year term.

Police are continuing their investigations.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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