Police chief urges public to trust investigation process

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu is calling on the public to respect and trust the process of investigation into the death of Police Constable Peniasi Racagi, as police dismiss a series of claims circulating on social media.

Commissioner Tudravu said allegations that the third suspect linked to the investigation is a police officer are false.

Police confirmed the third suspect had earlier been taken in for questioning and later released while investigators analysed information provided during the interview process.

Investigators later brought in the suspect’s partner to verify his alibi and other details.

Commissioner Tudravu also dismissed claims circulating online that a person who provided information in the case had gone missing.

Police said the woman was safe and with her family.

The Police Commissioner said a separate team from the Criminal Investigations Department was now looking into allegations suggesting police involvement in the case.

“If there is credible information regarding the involvement of police, it will be investigated,” he said.

“I urge the public to remove the mindset that we are protecting our own, and give my assurances that the law will run its course and anyone found interfering will be investigated, charged and taken to court.”

Commissioner Tudravu also rejected claims that the investigation was rushed to satisfy the victim’s family or the public.

He said rushing the investigation would risk undermining the prosecution process.

Police say all information received through official reporting channels will continue to be investigated as inquiries into the officer’s death continue.