A 31-year-old man, Anare Balewai, has accused police of assaulting him and subsequently threatening him against filing further complaints. Balewai alleges that on March 1, while heading to his sister’s workplace in Nakasi, he was confronted by police officers conducting a search of some boys outside a shop. According to his claims, a sergeant allegedly threatened to kill him if he reported the incident.
This latest accusation follows Balewai’s prior reports of being assaulted by police officers at the Nakasi Police Station a few weeks ago, raising serious concerns about police conduct in Fiji. Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that Balewai has lodged a report, and internal affairs are currently investigating the initial assault claims.
Balewai reported that during the recent encounter, he was instructed to lean against a wall for a search, ultimately asserting that nothing was found on him. Instead, he claims the sergeant ordered junior officers to handcuff him and forcibly escort him to the police station where he was subjected to further mistreatment. He described being mocked and humiliated during his time at the station, with specific mentions of degrading requests made by the sergeant.
The Fiji Police Force has not only acknowledged Balewai’s claims but has also submitted their findings regarding the earlier assault allegation to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for action. Investigations into Balewai’s second report about the recent threats are still underway.
This case mirrors other recent incidents of police violence in Fiji, including the high-profile case of Vilikesa Bari, a 21-year-old student who faced similar allegations of police assault. These ongoing incidents have cast a shadow over law enforcement practices in the region, prompting calls for a thorough examination of the police’s treatment of civilians.
As these investigations unfold, there is hope that they will serve to highlight the need for police reform and elevate the discussion surrounding accountability within law enforcement. The outcomes of these allegations may ultimately lead to improved policing standards, contributing to a safer environment and restoring public trust in the police force.
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