A 21-year-old woman from Labasa has been charged for providing false information to the police following a reported assault and robbery incident. The woman claimed that she was attacked by two unknown i-Taukei men while on her way to work last Saturday, stating that they stole her money, gold watch, and mobile phone in a park close to Labasa Hospital.
However, police investigations, which included reviewing CCTV footage, revealed discrepancies in her story. The footage showed her getting into a taxi immediately after disembarking from a bus at the Labasa bus stand. The taxi driver confirmed that he dropped her off at a residence in Line Point, Batinikama, which was later identified as belonging to her 25-year-old boyfriend.
Admitting to the authorities that she had gone to her boyfriend’s house rather than being attacked, she disclosed that an assault had occurred there. The items she initially reported stolen were subsequently found at her boyfriend’s home. As a result, the incident was categorized as domestic violence, leading police to take action on her behalf.
The woman has been charged with one count of giving false information to a public servant, while her boyfriend faces charges of assault causing actual bodily harm. Both individuals are currently in police custody and are set to appear in the Labasa Magistrates Court.
This case highlights issues of domestic violence and the importance of handling such sensitive cases with care. It serves as a reminder for victims to seek help through appropriate channels and for the community to support those in vulnerable situations. Authorities are taking steps to address domestic violence seriously, ensuring justice and support for genuine victims.
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