Alleged temple sacrilege suspect in custody: Police
“I couldn’t see the face of the culprit, but I am thankful that Police got here on time to handle the matter,” Pundit Tiwari said.
Saturday 12 July 2025 | 01:57
Updated 08 August 2025 | 15:30 FJT
Hindu religious ornaments broken and scattered an the Shiv Mandir Temple in Samabula, Suva.
A man is in Police custody after being arrested for allegedly breaking into the Shiv Mandir Temple in Samabula, Suva on Friday.
He is also alleged to have vandalised the place of worship.
In a video circulated on Facebook, showed the suspect damaging many religious ornaments that had been well preserved for many years.
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Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji national secretary Krishneel Tiwari said this was a holy month for devotees and the temple was open to the public.
“I couldn’t see the face of the culprit, but I am thankful that Police got here on time to handle the matter,” Pundit Tiwari said.
“We are shocked from what had just transpired.”
Member of Parliament Virendra Lal called for religious tolerance from every sectors of society.
“I have faith that the Police will ensure justice is served because our god idols were destroyed. They are sacred to us,” Mr Lal said.
The Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu confirmed the arrest and Police are investigating.
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