Mother Wants Justice for Slain Son
ACP Driu emphasised that the incident served as a tragic reminder of the severe consequences of excessive alcohol consumption, urging the public to drink responsibly and in moderation.
Tuesday 23 April 2024 | 13:11
Senitamole Bogilima (victim’s mother). Photo: Wati Talebula-Nuku (Right: The late Ovasisi Salusalu)
A family in Qauia, Lami, is seeking justice after their son Ovasisi Salusalu was allegedly killed outside a home in Sakoca, Tacirua, Suva on Sunday morning.
Assistant Commissioner of Police – Operations (ACP) Livai Driu said the victim, who purportedly lost his life while attempting to intervene in a domestic dispute, succumbed to injuries sustained from an assault.
Mr Salusalu, 40, from Maloku Village in Moala was allegedly struck with an iron rod, resulting in serious injuries which led to his death.
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The suspect’s wife, who also sustained injuries, received treatment at the Valelevu Health Centre and was discharged.
The suspect remains in custody at the Valelevu Police Station as investigations continue.
Mr Salusalu’s mother, Senitamole Bogilima, is struggling with the reality of her son’s death.
As the sole breadwinner for his family, Mr Salusalu’s passing has left a significant void.
Ms Bogilima could not contain her tears as she reminisced about her son’s life.
“The last time I spoke with my son was on Friday and little did I know it would be the last. I hope this is all just a bad dream because the pain is unbearable,” Ms Bogilima said.
“He was my fourth eldest child out of six. He was always there for me. After separating from his wife, he returned home and took care of me.
“Today (Monday) would have been his payday, and he would always come home to give me my money and buy food for us. It’s just so difficult for me to accept that he’s gone.”
Ms Bogilima hopes that those responsible for her son’s death will be brought to justice.
“No parent should ever have to bury their child. When I received the news of my son’s death, I sat by the window hoping to see him return home,” she said.
A Police officer at the house where the incident allegedly happened. Photo: Leon Lord
ACP Driu emphasised that the incident served as a tragic reminder of the severe consequences of excessive alcohol consumption, urging the public to drink responsibly and in moderation.
In another case, a 52-year-old man who was allegedly under the influence of alcohol assaulted his wife on Sunday morning in their Delainavesi home.
The victim sustained injuries. She was conveyed to the Lami Health Centre and later transferred to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital where she is still admitted.
The suspect remains in Police custody.
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