The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has initiated an internal investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the theft of a pistol from its armory at the Blackrock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Camp in Nadi, which occurred on September 25.
The weapon, identified as a U.S. 9mm M9 Beretta, was allegedly taken without authorization by an air-conditioning technician named Sitiveni Tavakece, who resides in Solovi, Nadi. Subsequently, Tavakece was prosecuted and sentenced to prison by the Nadi Magistrate’s Court after admitting guilt to the theft. The stolen pistol has since been returned to the RFMF.
An RFMF spokesperson indicated that the military would take appropriate measures against those implicated in the security breach. The spokesperson also noted that other items had been reported missing from the camp.
“The RFMF acknowledges the incident regarding the missing pistol as reported to the Police,” stated the spokesperson. “We are conducting an internal investigation to determine the facts surrounding the disappearance of the weapon. Rest assured, those responsible for the security breach will be held accountable. The public can trust that this is a rare occurrence, and there is no need for alarm.”
Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua has reassured the public about the security measures in place at RFMF armories. He acknowledged that such incidents raise concerns about safety, especially when firearms are missing from the Blackrock Camp. Tikoduadua emphasized that steps have been implemented to prevent future occurrences.
“It is unfortunate that this incident happened, and we are currently improving processes to ensure it does not happen again,” he affirmed. “The law and the courts have addressed the matter.”
Tavakece, 24, was sentenced to nine months and 19 days in prison last Friday after the court found him guilty of two counts of theft and one count of possessing a firearm without a license. He was alleged to have unlawfully taken the pistol, valued at $1500, along with three souvenir medals belonging to the RFMF.
The Beretta M9, the stolen pistol, is a semi-automatic firearm that has been in service with the United States Armed Forces since 1985. It features a short recoil operation and is designed for both left- and right-handed users, accommodating a 15-round magazine.