Commissioner: Evidence will determine next steps in Sakiasi Ose's case

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu says the case involving the death of the late Sakiasi Ose will be referred to a Resident Magistrate for independent assessment, while police continue internal disciplinary proceedings against officers linked to the incident.

The case has attracted national attention following allegations that Ose was assaulted by police officers during a raid before his death, prompting calls from family members, community leaders and members of the public for those responsible to be charged.

However, Mr Tudravu said police could not proceed with criminal charges without sufficient evidence.

“We cannot simply allege assault. There must be evidence to support it,” he said.

The Commissioner confirmed that 12 police officers had been interviewed as part of the investigation, with four officers identified as having direct involvement in the operation, including one officer who is also a complainant in the matter.

Mr Tudravu said one of the major challenges facing investigators was the absence of an official police report and medical examination immediately after the alleged assault.

“The allegations only surfaced after Ose passed away. Nobody reported the matter at the time it allegedly happened.

Had a report was made, we could have investigated immediately and referred him for medical examination,” he said.

He added that a post-mortem examination was conducted about three months after the alleged incident, making it difficult to establish a clear medical link between the injuries alleged and the cause of death.

“The post-mortem findings were not consistent with the allegations being made,” Mr Tudravu said.

He said police were now compiling witness statements and evidence before submitting the case file to a Resident Magistrate, who would independently determine whether further criminal investigations should be pursued.

“The only lawful way forward is to prepare the docket and present it to the Resident Magistrate.

The Magistrate will decide whether there is sufficient evidence for further investigation,” he said.

Mr Tudravu acknowledged growing public pressure for murder charges to be laid but stressed that investigators must follow due process.

“People are calling for murder charges, but investigations cannot be conducted based on public opinion. We must follow the evidence and the legal process,” he said.

While the criminal aspect of the case remains under review, the Commissioner said disciplinary action is already underway against the officers involved.