The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has initiated an internal investigation regarding the disappearance of a pistol from its armoury at the Blackrock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Camp in Nadi on September 25. The missing firearm is reported to be a U.S. 9mm M9 Beretta, which was taken from the camp without authorization by air-conditioning technician Sitiveni Tavakece, who resides in Solovi, Nadi. He has since been prosecuted and sentenced to jail by the Nadi Magistrate’s Court after pleading guilty to theft.
The pistol has been returned to the RFMF, and a spokesperson confirmed that the organization is committed to holding accountable those involved in this security breach. The spokesperson also revealed that other items went missing alongside the pistol. They emphasized that this incident is under investigation and assured the public that it is an isolated event and not a cause for alarm.
Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua expressed his commitment to public safety by confirming that all RFMF weapons are stored securely. He acknowledged the incident raises concerns about safety and assured that measures are being implemented to prevent a recurrence.
In a court hearing last Friday, Tavakece, aged 24, was sentenced to nine months and 19 days in prison for unlawfully removing the pistol. He faced charges of theft and possession of arms without a license, to which he pleaded guilty. The court learned that he had illicitly appropriated the pistol, valued at $1,500, along with three souvenir medals belonging to the RFMF. Magistrate Semi Babitu imposed a fine of $1,000 for his actions.
The Beretta M9, referenced in this case, is a semi-automatic pistol that has been utilized by the United States Armed Forces since 1985. It features a short recoil mechanism, a 15-round magazine, and is designed for both right and left-handed users.