A 24- year-old man of Narewa, Nadi has been charged by Police for one count of sacrilege.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed the incident and the man’s identity was known to investigators.

“The suspect is alleged to have set fire to the Bible Truth Fellowship Church building on Sunday night,” said Ms Naisoro.

“Other members of the church managed to put out the fire, which partially damaged the place of worship.”

Pastor Aminiasi Tuidraki said one of the neighbour saw smoke coming out of the church building on Sunday around 6pm.

“Some sound equipment were damaged, lucky the building which also had my office was saved,” he said.

Pastor Tuidraki added an amplifier had been discovered missing on Friday and the pulpit was located 200 metres outside the church with a cloth soaked in premix found near it.

According to Police, the estimated cost of damage is around $300.

The suspect is expected to appear at the Nadi Magistrates Court.

Edited by Ivamere Nataro

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