The family of Marika Radua, a man who tragically died in custody at the Savusavu Police Station, is seeking clarity regarding the circumstances leading to his death. Radua, a farmer from Naviavia Village in Cakaudrove, was reportedly found deceased in his cell at the police station on Tuesday and was pronounced dead upon arrival at Savusavu Hospital.
Unaisi Solaila, Radua’s aunt, stated that he appeared to be healthy when police officers took him from their home earlier that day. “He was picked up in the morning. At 1 pm, I received the news that he had died,” she recounted. Solaila raised concerns about Radua’s confinement with another inmate who allegedly had mental health issues, and she claimed that a family member who was also in custody heard Radua calling for help.
Upon viewings, wounds and blood were observed on Radua’s body, leading the family to express their distress as they were unable to recognize him when they saw him in the hospital. “They carried him dead to the vehicle,” Solaila added, emphasizing their need for answers regarding what occurred during his detention.
In response, Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew announced that officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) have been instructed to investigate the situation surrounding Radua’s death. The police have indicated that more information will be available once the investigation is complete, acknowledging the family’s concerns and the necessity of understanding the events that led to this tragic outcome.
The call for answers reflects broader concerns about accountability within law enforcement and the treatment of individuals in custody. As the investigation unfolds, it is hoped that clarity will be provided to the grieving family and that measures will be implemented to ensure transparency and justice.
This incident serves as a reminder of the essential need for police accountability and mental health considerations within detention facilities. The families impacted by such tragedies deserve thorough investigations to ensure they receive the answers they seek and to foster trust in the police system.
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