In a recent hearing at the Suva Magistrate’s Court, former supervisor of elections Mohammed Saneem detailed his experience of alleged inhumane treatment during his police detention. Under cross-examination by lawyer Devanesh Sharma, Saneem expressed that he was prevented from attending his daughter’s birthday celebration at home.
Saneem faces a charge of receiving a corrupt benefit, amounting to $55,944.03 in back pay from former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. He is contesting the legitimacy of the charges approved by then-acting DPP John Rabuku, claiming a breach of his fundamental human rights.
During the proceedings, Saneem recounted how he was initially contacted by a police officer posing as a victim in a purported rape case. Shortly thereafter, two officers arrived to arrest him, citing “orders from above” for his detention, which he interpreted as coming directly from acting DPP Rabuku. He noted that he was not informed of the rationale behind his detention.
Saneem expressed his desire to be allowed to celebrate his daughter’s birthday before being taken into custody; however, he claimed police officers dismissed his pleas with laughter. He described his conditions in detention, including being placed in a room with a loud and disorderly intoxicated individual and later being moved to a holding cell that he described as unsanitary, filled with rodent waste. He reported feeling a rat run over his feet while lying on a mattress.
Saneem’s lawyer highlighted the medical issues he suffered due to the alleged police conduct, including panic attacks attributable to the circumstances of his detention. Two letters addressing these concerns were submitted to Mr. Rabuku, but the responses were reportedly delayed.
Both Mr. Sharma and acting DPP Nancy Tikoisuva have a week to submit supplementary documents, with a ruling expected on December 17.
This situation underscores the importance of upholding human rights and ensuring fair treatment within legal systems. As the public awaits a resolution, there is hope that the ongoing legal process will address these grievances and ensure accountability.
Summary: Mohammed Saneem, former supervisor of elections, claimed he faced inhumane treatment during police detention, including denial of attending his daughter’s birthday, unsanitary conditions, and being placed in a room with a disorderly individual. Saneem is contesting charges of receiving a corrupt benefit and alleging breaches of his human rights. Both parties have a week to submit further documentation, with a ruling set for December 17.
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