Father Demands Justice After Alleged Police Brutality on Son

A father is demanding that police authorities investigate his son’s injuries, which he claims were inflicted by officers during an incident of alleged police brutality. The incident reportedly took place two Saturdays ago at a service station close to Navua Town, where Iliesa Mainiudua’s 32-year-old son was selling food parcels when he confronted a group of men who had taken food without paying.

Mr. Mainiudua expressed his anger and disappointment at the alleged actions of the police officers involved. He shared details of his son’s injuries, stating that his jaw was dislocated and swollen after being punched by an officer. Furthermore, he alleged that his son was assaulted both inside a police vehicle and at the police station, where he was left in a vulnerable state until a sympathetic officer intervened and facilitated his transfer to the hospital. His son was hospitalized for roughly two weeks before being released.

In light of these alarming allegations, the Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, has reiterated the necessity of accountability within the force. He confirmed that the Criminal Investigations Department is looking into the incident and emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust, particularly during a period in which the police are actively working to address concerns of misconduct among their ranks.

The Commissioner acknowledged the unfortunate implications of such incidents, affirming that internal discipline will be pursued against any found guilty of misusing their authority. He noted that the ongoing investigation serves as an opportunity to reinforce the police’s commitment to lawful conduct and accountability.

This situation echoes similar incidents of police brutality reported recently in Fiji, reflecting a broader need for integrity and transparency within law enforcement. As investigations unfold, there is hope that meaningful accountability measures will be enforced, paving the way for improved relations between the police and the community, ultimately fostering a safer environment for all.