PENIASI Racagi’s remarkable talent and unwavering commitment on the rugby field were evident to all who witnessed him play. As a member of the Devos rugby team, Racagi demonstrated a level of discipline that belied his age, catching the attention of a police officer who saw promise in him. That encounter led to a career choice that would change his life: four years ago, Racagi proudly joined the Fiji Police Force.
His uncle, Ari Tema, expressed that this path was a natural fit for Peni, a young man raised in a devout Christian household by a father who served as a lay pastor. The values of humility, respect, and faith that he learned from his upbringing were integral to his life and work.
Tragically, Racagi’s life was cut short last weekend. Following post-mortem results indicating possible foul play, the family is left to grapple with the heavy weight of their loss. Tema lamented the family’s grief, particularly his mother, Vinaina Veregu, who is now preparing to lay her youngest son to rest less than a year after the loss of her husband.
At just 24 years old, Constable Racagi was the youngest of three siblings, with a promising future ahead of him after completing his secondary education and making a name for himself in rugby. On Saturday night, while on duty at Lami Police Station, his life took a tragic turn. The next day, his body was discovered behind the Lami Oceania Wesley Church.
The devastating news reached his family through an officer before it was widely reported on social media. “We found out on Sunday when an officer came to tell his mother. Later, we saw it on social media and heard it in the news. But by then, our world had already fallen apart,” said a relative.
Ms. Veregu, overwhelmed by her grief, was unable to speak as relatives gathered around her during this trying time, traveling from Naviqiri to Labasa for support. Describing her son, she stated, “He was the youngest. He was kind. He always put others before himself. Many young people in the village looked up to him. He had dreams that were just starting.”
In their mourning, the family is now calling for justice. They are determined to see that those responsible for his untimely death are held accountable. “We want whoever is responsible to face the full brunt of the law. We have many questions that are left unanswered. He did not deserve this,” they implored.
The spirit of unity and the pursuit of justice following this tragic event bring hope that the case will be resolved, allowing the community to honor the memory of a young man who touched many lives with his kindness and dedication.
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