The Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, has assured the public that the incident of police brutality in Nausori will be thoroughly investigated. The case involves Vilikesa Bari, a 21-year-old final-year maritime student at Fiji National University, who was allegedly assaulted by a police officer over the weekend, leading to his hospitalization due to serious injuries.
Reports indicate that Bari suffered a broken jaw and is having difficulty eating as a result of the alleged attack. Tikoduadua stated, “I’ve been informed about it, we’ll investigate it fully,” emphasizing his commitment to addressing the case now that it has come to his attention.
During a visit to Bari at Wainibokasi Hospital, his family raised concerns about bribery, claiming that the police officer involved visited Bari at the Nausori Health Centre early on Sunday and offered him $500 in exchange for his silence regarding the incident.
In response to the allegations against the police, Acting Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sakeo Raikaci acknowledged the erosion of trust and confidence in the force caused by the actions of a few officers. He stated that recent claims of abuse of authority and inadequate service delivery have adversely affected community relations. Raikaci reiterated the police’s commitment to restoring public trust through necessary disciplinary actions and emphasized the efforts of officers dedicated to serving their communities.
This situation presents an opportunity for the police force to reflect on its practices, leading to important reforms that can enhance community relations and restore public confidence. It is crucial for law enforcement to ensure accountability and integrity within its ranks, as this can ultimately lead to a safer environment for all citizens.
In summary, the assurance of a thorough investigation into the police brutality case, along with the acknowledgment of trust issues within the police agency, indicates a move towards potential positive change and accountability in law enforcement practices.
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