Quick action by an off duty Police officer led to the arrest of a 20-year-old man. The man allegedly robbed a 52-year-old woman in Lautoka last Saturday.

The incident occurred along Yawini Street.

The victim was entering a shop when the accused allegedly grabbed her phone and personal belongings and ran towards the Multipurpose Court.

The victim followed the suspect in her vehicle and alerted bystanders when Police Constable Joji Lagi who was playing volleyball with friends heard the cry for help.

The 23-year-old lad from Naqumu Village in Macuata without giving much thought chased the suspect.

He saw the suspect carrying a kitchen knife whereby he took the necessary precautions.

“It was dark because it was around 8.30pm or almost 9pm. The thing that came to my mind was the face of the late PC Siuta Niumataiwalu,” said PC Lagi.

The accused allegedly swung the knife twice and struck the officer’s right leg. PC Lagi managed to kick the knife from his hands.

The officer overpowered the accused and flagged down a passing taxi to alert other Police officers of the incident.

The accused was taken into custody, questioned and charged with one count of theft, two counts of serious assault and was produced in court.

He was remanded in custody.

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