Vilikesa Bari, a 21-year-old marine engineering student at the Fiji Maritime Academy, is advocating for justice following an alleged assault by a police officer in Nausori over the weekend. Currently hospitalized at Wainibokasi Hospital, Bari has undergone surgery for a broken jaw due to the incident.
Having just completed his exams, Bari was preparing for a mandatory six-month seagoing service prior to his graduation. Unfortunately, medical professionals have informed him that this important milestone will need to be postponed as he recovers from his injuries.
In his own words, Bari expressed his hope that the law would ensure justice and prevent similar incidents from occurring. He shared details of the event, stating that after returning home from a family gathering, a confrontation broke out nearby. When Bari attempted to alert a nearby officer by tapping him on the shoulder, the situation escalated. He claims the officer reacted aggressively, pulling him into a vehicle and striking him multiple times with a flashlight and then physically assaulting him further.
According to Bari, it was only when another officer intervened that the assault was halted. He subsequently requested medical assistance, and he has revealed that the officer responsible for his injuries later visited him in the hospital, admitting his own stress but not taking full responsibility for the actions taken that night.
Bari’s mother, Unaisi Qionimacawa, expressed her shock and relief that her son survived the ordeal, reflecting on the potential severity of the situation. She pledged her support for her son should he choose to pursue justice.
In response to the allegations, Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has initiated an investigation into the claims, emphasizing that all officers must adhere to the law in their duties.
While this incident highlights serious concerns regarding police conduct, it is encouraging to see a commitment to accountability and the investigation process. Both Bari and his mother’s determination to seek justice may inspire greater awareness and reform within the police force, potentially improving relations between law enforcement and the community.
This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the law and treating citizens with respect, and it raises hope for a future where incidents like this are addressed and prevented more effectively.
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