Police Brutality Investigation Continues

Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua has reassured that the police brutality case in Nausori over the weekend will be investigated.

Vilikesa Bari, a final-year maritime student at the Fiji National University was allegedly assaulted by a police officer over the weekend which resulted in his admission to the hospital on Sunday morning.

The 21-year-old sustained serious from the alleged assault.

His jawline is broken, and he is still struggling to consume food.

“I’ve been informed about it, we’ll investigate it fully,” Mr Tikoduadua said.

“I’ve only just been made aware, now that you have raised it with me, we will ensure to investigate the case.”

This masthead visited Mr Bari at the Wainibokasi Hospital on Monday where claims of bribery were also made by the family.

The suspect allegedly visited Mr Bari around 4am on Sunday at the Nausori Health Centre where he was initially admitted and offered $500 to buy his silence.

On Tuesday, police said they recognised that the actions of ‘a few’ officers have impacted trust and confidence in the institution.

Acting Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sakeo Raikaci said recent allegations of abuse of authority and poor service delivery have caused a dent in police specifically in community relations. ACP Raikaci said all necessary steps are being pursued to rebuild trust and confidence in the institution.

“Our commitment to service is unwavering and we thank members of the community who continue to support the work of policing. We are doing our best to rectify the issues that are impacting public confidence, through necessary disciplinary measures,” he said.

“Officers serving throughout the five policing divisions continue to do their best in serving our communities and appreciate the continuous show of support.”

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