Three suspects in custody after alleged Saweni abduction leaves man critical

Three men are in Police custody after an alleged abduction and assault in Saweni left a 54-year-old man in critical condition.

Rosan Ali remains admitted at Lautoka Hospital after he was allegedly abducted and brutally assaulted at Coral Cord Road in the Saweni Tramline Tyre Centre area on Wednesday.

His 20-year-old daughter, Imrana Khan, narrowly escaped after she was allegedly forced into a vehicle.

Ms Khan said five people — four men and a woman — were involved.

She identified the woman as a family friend who had messaged her asking to meet before arriving at their home.

“She called me outside, saying it was important. When I went out, she grabbed me and forced me into the car,” she said.

“I screamed and called my dad, but it was too late.”

Ms Khan said she was assaulted inside the moving vehicle before jumping out near a neighbour’s home.

“From there, I saw men beating my father in our compound. They later took him away in another vehicle,” she said.

Police were alerted immediately and, within an hour and a half, officers located Ali.

He had suffered stab wounds and severe facial injuries.

Family members believe the attack is linked to an earlier incident involving Ms Khan’s 17-year-old brother, who allegedly stole $1,000 and fled home before later associating with the suspects.

Azim Ali, younger brother of Rosan Ali and vice-president of the Coral Cord area, said the suspects were known in the community and allegedly involved in drug activity.

“This area is dangerous. The suspects are involved in drug activity. People are afraid, especially women. Drug activity here is a serious concern,” he said.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed three suspects are in custody.

Ms Naisoro said the Saweni incident is believed to have stemmed from a disagreement, and investigations are continuing.