“Totally unacceptable” — Fijian Media Association tells Police to do better after another courthouse attack

The Fijian Media Association (FMA) says Police must be more vigilant and urgently improve security outside courthouses after a Fijian journalist was violently attacked by convicted murderer Sairusi Ceinaturaga on Monday.

FBC journalist Apenisa Waqairadovu suffered injuries to his arms and hands after Ceinaturaga, moments after being convicted of murdering his de facto partner’s one-year-old child, broke away from police supervision and ran at him.

Ceinaturaga emerged from the courtroom in handcuffs, with a Police officer trailing a metre or two behind. The officer failed to keep pace when Ceinaturaga suddenly charged at Waqairadovu, threatening him, swearing, and charged at him down the stairs.

FMA General Secretary Stanley Simpson said the incident reflects a repeated and troubling pattern of inadequate security.

“This has been happening too often to journalists outside the courtroom, and we do not see any improved process despite our repeated calls for stronger security and protection,” Mr Simpson said.

“We have been consistently calling for urgent action from police to protect media workers – even after another convicted murderer Tevita Kapawale tried to attack journalists outside the courthouse in August.”

He said the ongoing risks faced by court reporters were unacceptable.

“Journalists have faced physical threats every year while covering court cases, and the Fiji Police Force’s repeated failure to provide adequate security for media personnel is unacceptable.”

“The media plays a vital role in ensuring transparency and accountability in our justice system. Journalists have the right to report on matters of public interest without fear of violence or intimidation.”

Mr Simpson renewed the association’s call for immediate reforms.

“We are urging the Fiji Police Force to immediately implement proper security protocols for court proceedings, including secure perimeters during prisoner transport and adequate police presence to protect journalists from violent offenders.”

The association says police must urgently revisit and strengthen their courthouse security procedures.

“In the past officers would surround the accused person and escort him out, not let them just walk out with officers strolling at the back,” Mr Simpson said.

“In this case the journalist kept their distance but was still chased down and attacked and this is totally unacceptable.”

He said journalists cover court proceedings to keep the public informed and to ensure justice is upheld.

“We are again urging the public to appreciate and understand the role journalists play in providing the coverage of how justice and the rule of law is administered in this country.”