A video circulating on social media has prompted serious concerns about police conduct, as it allegedly depicts police brutality during an arrest of a youth near a McDonald’s in Suva city. The individual who recorded the footage claims to have heard a “snap,” suggesting that the police may have used excessive force that resulted in the youth’s arm being broken.
Ketal Lal, an Opposition Member of Parliament, has demanded urgent action from law enforcement, emphasizing the necessity for a prompt, transparent, and independent investigation. He insisted that authorities must determine whether the police officers involved violated the Police Act or breached human rights principles as established in the country’s Constitution.
This incident is reminiscent of another troubling occurrence earlier this month when Vilikesa Bari, a 21-year-old maritime student, was hospitalized after allegedly being assaulted by a police officer during a disturbance in Nausori. He reported being struck while attempting to help deescalate the situation, only to be forcibly taken into custody where he allegedly faced additional assault. Subsequently, claims arose that the same officer attempted to bribe Bari with $500 to stay silent about the incident.
The rising tide of allegations surrounding police misconduct in Fiji has underscored a pressing need for greater accountability and reform within law enforcement. Ministers and police leadership have expressed their commitment to addressing these serious issues, with ongoing investigations aimed at restoring public trust. As both cases indicate, the community is calling for significant changes to policing practices to ensure the fair treatment of all citizens.
In a hopeful light, the active response from public officials to investigate these allegations signifies a recognition of the problems and a desire for reform, potentially ushering in a period of improved policing standards and relations with the community. Safeguarding citizens’ rights and fostering trust in law enforcement remain paramount as these investigations unfold.
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