Police probe alleged assault of health staff in Lau

Health workers at Ono-i-Lau Health Centre were allegedly sexually harassed and assaulted by a drunk youth just days before New Year.

This has raised concern about the safety of medical staff in remote communities .

The alleged incident occurred at the small health centre in Nukuni Village ,which is staffed by a single doctor and two nurses; a married couple with a child.

The facility was closed for the festive season.

Police alleged that a group of youths from Nukuni and near by Lovoni villages had been drinking outside the health centre around 5pm last Tuesday.

Two youths later entered seeking treatment after one was injured in a fight.

While treating the injured youth, the female nurse was allegedly sexually harassed.

The youth allegedly made derogatory sexual comments, hugged her tightly and kissed her forehead without her consent.

The same youth is said to have returned later demanding methylated spirits.

When the doctor and his wife refused, he allegedly became aggressive, issuing threats and provoking an altercation that was broken up by a villager.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed a report had been lodged and said a divisional crime officer will be sent from Suva to investigate.

The nearest police station is in Lakeba, approximately 185 to 280 kilometers away.

This is reportedly not the first incident of harassment at the village health centre.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services, citing the ongoing investigation, declined to comment but has previously stressed that health workers have constitutional rights that must be respected and urged communities to cooperate to ensure their safety.

Attempt to reach the village headman were unsuccessful.