Police suspensions will follow investigations, says Tudravu

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu says the suspension of police officers under investigation is not automatic and will depend on the outcome of investigations.

Responding to questions about the possible suspension of officers being investigated in connection with cases including alleged involvement in the drug trade and the deaths of Sakiasi Ose Radravu and Iveri Tuimasi, Mr Tudravu said the decision to suspend an officer rests with the Commissioner.

“Suspending police officers is the prerogative of the Commissioner. It is not a legal requirement; it is a practice. The law states that I may suspend a police officer,” he said.

“That should be clear to everyone. People are calling for suspensions, but I will make that decision based on the investigations currently undertaken.”

Mr Tudravu said suspensions or interdictions were used to protect the integrity of an investigation.

“The law says that I may suspend or interdict a police officer. When that stage is reached, I will do so to protect the integrity of the investigation.”

Police have confirmed that the 11 senior officers accused of colluding with Auckland-based drug traffickers remain on duty.

“They remain in office. As alluded to earlier, the decision of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) will determine the action taken,” police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said.

The ODPP said last month that a decision on the files involving the 11 officers was expected after the completion of a two-stage review process, including an independent assessment by an external consultant.

Investigation continues

Mr Tudravu said investigations into the death of 39-year-old Iveri Tuimasi were continuing.

Tuimasi died on June 19, 2026, following a police drug raid in Dakuni Village, Beqa.

His post-mortem report has been provided to his family and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

“The investigation is ongoing. As I have already stated, all police officers involved will be interviewed,” Mr Tudravu said.

Once investigations are completed, the case file will be submitted to the ODPP for independent legal review.

Radravu case to proceed to inquest

Mr Tudravu said the case involving the death of Sakiasi Ose Radravu would be referred to the Resident Magistrate for an inquest.

On June 14, police confirmed that all 12 officers involved in Radravu's arrest had been interviewed by CID investigators.

Investigations found that four officers were directly involved in apprehending Radravu.

Police said the four officers had been directed to take pending leave and would subsequently be interdicted on half pay pending internal disciplinary proceedings by the Internal Affairs Department.