Investigations are being carried out into the alleged torture of nine men at the Nadarivatu Community Police Post last month.

Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Itendra Nair commented on the issue saying their internal affairs unit is already investigating two reports lodged at the Tavua Police Station by the complainants.

“As the Commissioner of Police has given his assurances that all complaints made against our officers or services will be thoroughly investigated,” he said.

“We are a transparent organisation and if and when an officer has committed a crime they will be charged.

“Our internal affairs unit conducts the investigations fairly.”

The complainants are said to be from Waikubukubu Village, which lies in the interior of Tavua district, in the Ba province.

According to Lautoka lawyer Aman Ravindra-Singh, the alleged incident took place on January 26. He said there are photos which show bruises on the victims.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce