The ongoing investigation into the death of Marika Radua, who died while in custody at the Savusavu Police Station on November 5, is expected to yield crucial lessons for the Fiji Police Force. This statement was made by Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, during a recent visit to Labasa. He underscored that such incidents should never happen and reflected on the need to prioritize the welfare of those held in police custody.
Tikoduadua emphasized that better infrastructure is essential, indicating that the facilities need improvements to ensure the safety of detainees. He noted concerns about the mental well-being of the individuals in custody and expressed that police officers require enhanced education and training to better manage such situations. The Minister clarified that he is not blaming the police; rather, he highlighted the need to provide a secure environment for detainees and emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals who may be at risk of harm.
The investigation remains active, focusing on the circumstances surrounding Radua’s death, which reportedly involved an assault by another detainee. Despite the tragic circumstances, there is hope that this incident will prompt necessary reforms and improvements within the police force, leading to better standards of care and safety for future detainees.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of accountability and the need for continuous improvements in law enforcement practices to protect the rights and well-being of all individuals in custody.
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