Jone Vakarisi death: Query over who leads probe

The death of drug accused Jone Vakarisisi while in military custody has sparked national debate over legal authority, investigation procedures, and accountability.

Legal experts say criminal matters must be led by police, while human rights officials are calling for an independent and transparent inquiry.

According to a statement by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Vakarisisi was among four men who had ‘voluntarily’ presented themselves at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks (QEB) in Nabua.

The RFMF said Vakarisisi was the only one who suffered a sudden and severe medical emergency.

Despite life‑saving efforts by qualified RFMF medical personnel on site, he could not be revived.

However, the circumstances surrounding his detention and treatment leading up to his death have drawn national attention, prompting calls for accountability and transparency.

Legal experts say the case highlights the need to strictly follow established criminal investigation procedures, particularly when allegations involve the military.

They stress that any suspected criminal conduct must, in the first instance, be investigated by the Fiji Police Force, specifically the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), rather than military police.

According to legal sources, the process should begin with a formal complaint, followed by the opening of a Police Enquiry Paper (PEP), allowing investigators to gather evidence and determine what occurred.

Concerns have been raised that military police may have taken on aspects of the investigation, including matters relating to the detention of Vakarisisi and the four other men.

Legal sources warned that military police do not have the authority to conduct criminal arrests or lead such investigations.

“The proper process must be done by the police to make arrests,” one source said, adding that criminal investigations fall under police jurisdiction.

The Fiji Human Rights and Anti‑Discrimination Commission has called for an independent investigation, describing any death in custody as a matter of “exceptional gravity”.

Commission director Loukinikini Lewaravu said people in custody were owed the highest duty of care by the State and stressed that transparency and accountability were essential to maintaining public confidence.

She also noted that Fiji’s Constitution guarantees the right to life and protection from inhumane treatment, alongside obligations under international human rights conventions.

As scrutiny grows, the case is becoming a test of whether established legal procedures are being followed and whether investigations involving the military are being handled independently and in accordance with the law.

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj