Forensic equipment shortage delays Racagi investigation

The investigation into the death of Police Constable Peni Racagi has been delayed because Fiji lacks the specialised forensic laboratory equipment needed to complete critical examinations, Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu says.

Mr Tudravu said Police had completed their investigation, but the process could not be finalised because Fiji did not have the specialised machines required to carry out further forensic analysis.

As a result, all samples and specimens had been sent to New Zealand for examination.

"The issue at this point in time is we don't have the machines and other equipment to do the proper analysis of the post-mortem that needs to be done further. That is why we have referred all the samples and specimens to our counterparts in New Zealand for further examination," Mr Tudravu said.

He said the Police Force continued to submit budget requests each year to improve its forensic laboratory and urged the Government to invest in the equipment needed to strengthen criminal investigations.

"We need the equipment in order for us to do our job well. If we cannot be provided with that, then all these things will be prolonged," he said.

Mr Tudravu said the delay was beyond the Police Force's control and appealed to Constable Racagi's relatives to remain patient while Police awaited the overseas forensic results.

"It is out of our control and we are also waiting. We would like the process to be done faster, but if we don't have that support then we can't do much," he said.

Constable Racagi's body was found in Lami in the early hours of Sunday, February 22, 2026, while he was on night shift.

Police said the investigation would continue once the forensic findings from New Zealand were received.