The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has initiated an internal investigation regarding the recent theft of a pistol from its armory at the Blackrock Camp in Nadi, which occurred on September 25. The firearm in question is a U.S. 9mm M9-BERETTA, reportedly taken without authorization by air-conditioning technician Sitiveni Tavakece, a resident of Solovi, Nadi.
Tavakece was subsequently prosecuted and sentenced to jail after admitting guilt in the Nadi Magistrate’s Court. The stolen pistol has now been returned to the RFMF.
An RFMF spokesperson stated that measures would be taken against individuals involved in this security lapse and confirmed that other items were also reported missing from the camp. The spokesperson acknowledged the incident and reassured the public that this was an isolated event, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm.
Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua reassured citizens that all RFMF weapons are housed in secure facilities. He acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and stated that the RFMF has implemented safeguards to prevent recurrence.
Last Friday, Tavakece was sentenced to nine months and 19 days in prison for the unauthorized removal of the pistol, along with being fined $1,000 for possession of arms without a license and theft. He was reported to have unlawfully taken the pistol, valued at $1,500, along with three medals belonging to the RFMF.
The Beretta M9, known as a semi-automatic pistol, has been utilized by the U.S. military since its adoption in 1985 and features a 15-round magazine suitable for both right and left-handed users.