The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has initiated an internal inquiry regarding 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 stolen weapon, identified as a U.S. 9mm M9 Beretta (serial number 65490), was unlawfully taken by Sitiveni Tavakece, an air-conditioning technician from Solovi, Nadi. Tavakece has since been tried and sentenced to prison by the Nadi Magistrate’s Court after admitting to the theft.
The weapon has been recovered and returned to the RFMF. A spokesperson for the RFMF confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of the security breach and assured that those responsible will face consequences. The spokesperson also noted that other items had been reported missing from the camp, emphasizing that this incident is being treated seriously.
Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua reassured the public about the security of arms stored within RFMF facilities following the incident. He acknowledged the concerns raised by the case and emphasized that measures are being implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Last Friday, the Nadi Magistrate’s Court sentenced Tavakece, 24, to nine months and 19 days in prison for removing the pistol without authorization. He faced charges of theft and possessing a firearm without a license and pleaded guilty to all counts. The court determined that Tavakece illegally appropriated not only a pistol valued at $1500 but also three souvenir medals belonging to the RFMF.
The Beretta M9, as detailed by firearms sources, is a semi-automatic pistol that has been the standard sidearm for the United States Armed Forces since 1985. It is designed to be adaptable for both right- and left-handed users and carries a magazine capacity of 15 rounds.