A 21-year-old marine engineering student, Vilikesa Bari, is pursuing justice following an alleged assault by a police officer in Nausori on Saturday night. Currently hospitalized at Wainibokasi Hospital, Bari is recovering from injuries inflicted during the incident, including a broken jaw that necessitated surgery. His anticipated six-month seagoing service, a prerequisite for his graduation from the Fiji Maritime Academy, has been put on hold due to his condition.
Bari explained that he was waiting with his brother for transportation after a family event when an altercation broke out nearby. When he approached a police officer to intervene, the situation escalated, leading to Bari being taken to the officer’s vehicle, where the officer allegedly assaulted him with a flashlight and then continued the beatings at the station. Another officer intervened to stop the assault and assisted Bari in getting medical attention.
In a surprising turn, the officer who confronted Bari later visited him and acknowledged the incident, stating he felt stressed and pressured, but Bari emphasized that such personal struggles should not affect his actions. Bari’s mother, Unaisi Qionimacawa, expressed her shock at the event and is grateful her son survived. She vowed to support him in his quest for justice.
The Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, has initiated an investigation into the allegations and reiterated the importance of maintaining the rule of law among officers.
This situation highlights serious concerns regarding police conduct and accountability, accentuating the importance of transparency and justice in maintaining public trust. The family’s determination to pursue justice could lead to positive changes in policing practices that ultimately benefit the community.
In summary, Vilikesa Bari’s experience reflects a troubling incident of police conduct that not only affected his future but also sparked a broader discussion about accountability within law enforcement. The hope is that this situation will be addressed promptly and fairly, ensuring that such events do not repeat, and reinforcing the notion that justice is a right for all.
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