Police have initiated an investigation into a sexual harassment allegation made by a contestant from the Miss Hibiscus pageant.
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that a report was filed at the Totogo Police Station on Friday, prompting an inquiry into the matter. The allegations emerged last week when a contestant disclosed to the Fiji Sun that she had been “jabbed in the back” by a guest during the crowning ceremony on September 7.
The situation caught the attention of the Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, who has called for an internal investigation into the incident. Mr. Nalumisa stated that a dedicated team is examining the circumstances surrounding that night.
“There should be professionalism maintained to safeguard the affairs of every queen contestant,” he emphasized. He expressed his commitment to uncovering the truth and expects the investigation to conclude within the week.
Following the incident, Mr. Nalumisa reached out to Tevita Boseiwaqa, the chairperson of the Suva City Council special administration, who is part of the investigating team.
The contestant has formally filed her complaint with the police. Initially, she considered waiting for a witness, who was out of the country, to return before proceeding but ultimately decided to report the incident without further hesitation.
She alleges that a reportedly intoxicated man jabbed her in the back and that she promptly informed event officials about the incident.
Additionally, Mr. Nalumisa stressed that consuming alcohol should never serve as an excuse for inappropriate behavior.