Inmate misconduct halts family visits, Corrections Service explains

The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has clarified why inmate Tevita Qaqanivalu did not qualify for a family visit on the weekend because of misbehaviour, unruly conduct and uncooperative attitude.

Acting Commissioner of Corrections Auta Moceisuva confirmed that Qaqanivalu was not eligible for a family visit.

The FCS responded to claims made by a family member, Finau Kitekei’aho, on social media platform Facebook, where she questioned why the family was not allowed to visit Qaqanivalu on Saturday.

Ms Kitekei’aho alleged that when she went to visit Mr Qaqanivalu at the Naboro Remand Centre, she was informed by an officer that there were strict orders from Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga not to allow the family visit.

She further claimed the restriction was because of alleged verbal abuses directed at Mr Turaga by Qaqanivalu.

The FCS labelled the post as misinformation that wrongly portrayed the Acting Attorney-General and FCS officials.

Mr Moceisuva said Qaqanivalu’s repeated misbehaviour and uncooperative attitude towards lawful authority contributed to the decision.

FCS also revealed that Mr Turaga strongly refuted claims that he prevented Qaqanivalu’s mother, Ms Kitekei’aho, from visiting her son.

It was further clarified that advice given by the officer-in-charge at the Maximum Security Centre regarding the refusal was misunderstood.

Mr Moceisuva said the matter was operational and that all decisions regarding family visits were made under his authority.

He emphasised that family visits are facilitated based on inmates’ good behaviour and work productivity, and are intended to support social reintegration once a sentence is served.

FCS confirmed that 1021 inmates were visited by 2308 people across 16 correctional facilities nationwide on the weekend.

The criteria for family visits include having no recorded disciplinary cases throughout the year, maintaining good health, obedience, good behaviour, work productivity, and cooperation with authorities.

To ensure fairness, Mr Moceisuva said an investigation had been directed to establish the facts surrounding the complaint.

“The investigation is also linked to the alleged vulgar text messages directed towards Mr Turaga by prisoner Qaqanivalu,” he said.

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