Three former correction officers have been sentenced to a combined total of 10 years imprisonment for the murder of Jone Masirewa, a remand prisoner at Natabua Correction Centre, in 2020. The High Court in Lautoka, under Justice Aruna Aluthge, delivered the sentences after finding Onisimo Raboiliku, Semesa Bulikalougata, and Navitalai Kanavo guilty.
At the time of the incident, the trio were serving as corrections officers at the Natabua Corrections Centre. Raboiliku was the assistant superintendent and the senior officer involved, while Bulikalougata and Kanavo operated under his command. The assault resulted in Masirewa sustaining fatal injuries.
The case arose during the COVID-19 pandemic when Masirewa was in quarantine. Testimonies revealed that the assault followed complaints about Masirewa swearing at officers. Raboiliku reportedly commanded Bulikalougata and Kanavo to discipline Masirewa, leading to a violent attack using kicks and a fire hydrant nozzle.
Justice Aluthge condemned the officers’ actions, highlighting the breach of their duties and trust. He emphasized that the correctional officers exploited their authority over a vulnerable individual in their custody, leading to Masirewa’s death from the injuries inflicted. Additionally, Raboiliku attempted to clean up the crime scene to hinder evidence gathering.
The sentences include four years of imprisonment for Raboiliku, with a non-parole period of two years, while Bulikalougata and Kanavo received three years each, with non-parole periods of 18 months. Requests for suspended sentences were denied, emphasizing accountability and deterring similar actions in the future. The men have 30 days to appeal.
This case underscores the crucial need for reforms in correctional facilities to prevent abuses and safeguard inmate rights. It highlights the systemic changes required to enforce humane and ethical treatment within the justice system. The judgment aims to foster accountability and serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities officers bear in upholding human dignity and legal standards.
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