Family demands answers over custody death

The family of Jone Vakarisi is demanding answers following his death after being taken into military custody.

Vakarisi, known to authorities for previous drug-related offences, was among four individuals who voluntarily presented themselves to assist with investigations into recent security breaches.

Relatives say Vakarisi was taken from his home on Thursday night along with three other men by individuals believed to be military police, without any formal explanation.

The mother of Vakarisi's children, Kuini Osborne, said the family last saw him alive that evening.

The following day, relatives went to Nabua Army Barracks, where they believed he was being held for questioning, and waited outside seeking information.

Before they received any official response, the family was informed that Mr Vakarisi’s body had been taken to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital mortuary.

Family members later confirmed his death.

Ms Osborne said the lack of communication had deepened their grief, with no clear explanation given about why he was taken or what happened while in custody.

The family has raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding his detention and death, and says key questions remain unanswered.

They also allege similar detentions in recent days, where other young men were taken in and later claimed they were mistreated. These claims remain unverified.

Witnesses cited by the family claim no visible police officers were present during the initial pickup, alleging those involved were uniformed personnel arriving in multiple vehicles.

The family is now calling for an independent investigation.

The Republic of Fiji Military Forces earlier confirmed that Mr Vakarisi died after suffering a medical emergency while in custody at Queen Elizabeth Barracks.

“During the formal interview process, Mr Vakarisi suffered a sudden and severe medical emergency. Immediate and exhaustive life-saving efforts were administered by qualified RFMF medical personnel on-site but unfortunately could not revive him resulting in his unfortunate demise,” the RFMF said in a statement.

The RFMF said Mr Vakarisi was among four individuals who voluntarily presented themselves to assist with investigations into recent security breaches.

The Fiji Police Force has also confirmed investigations into allegations of brutality which was listed on Varisi's death certificate which was leaked on social media yesterday.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.