Police are searching for a man suspected of causing the death of his partner. The woman succumbed to injuries inflicted by the suspect, who had not been located at the time of this report.
The couple allegedly resided in a rented property in the affluent area of Albert Lee Place, off Nailuva Road in Suva. A family member reported the incident, which prompted a police investigation. Authorities indicated that a post-mortem would determine the cause of death.
In a statement released last night, the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection expressed its sadness and outrage over the tragic event. The ministry called for swift justice for the victim and urged all members of society to take immediate action to prevent further incidents.
“We stand in solidarity with the victim’s family and all those affected by this horrific violence,” the ministry stated. This incident follows another similar occurrence in April, where a woman also lost her life under comparable circumstances.
Violence against women and girls remains a persistent issue in Fiji, with nearly two out of three women experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. The ministry stressed the urgent need for action to end this cycle of violence and called on individuals, families, and communities to work together to create safe environments for all women and girls.
Minister Lynda Tabuya remarked that the loss is both unacceptable and heartbreaking, assuring women and girls that they are not alone. Support services are available through the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, the National Domestic Violence Helpline (1560), and the Child Helpline (1325). “No woman should live in fear,” she added.
The Fiji National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls, launched in June 2023, serves as a critical part of Fiji’s response to this ongoing crisis.