A 28-year-old police officer has pleaded guilty to manslaughter following the death of a man in Suva earlier this year. Fifita Toma Tawake admitted his guilt during a court session yesterday before Justice Thushara Rajasinghe, where a trial was set to commence.
The incident took place on January 13, when Tawake and several friends were consuming kava at a venue previously known as JJ’s on the Park, now called DeVos on the Park, before heading home. As they approached traffic lights on Central Street, a 47-year-old man was crossing the road from the Westpac Bank to the Fiji Airways office when the lights turned red.
Prosecutor Simone Seruvatu informed the court that the man tapped on the rear of Tawake’s vehicle to alert him that he was running a red light. In frustration and while under the influence, Tawake exited his vehicle and, without provocation, struck the man in the face. The victim fell violently onto the pavement.
Witnesses reported that Tawake, along with a friend, moved the injured man to a corner near the Westpac Bank and left him exposed to the elements for approximately 40 minutes. Tawake dismissed concerns from onlookers, assuring them the man was simply unconscious. When approached by a local worker, Tawake told him to “mind his own business.”
Eventually, bystanders moved the man to shelter from the rain. When law enforcement arrived, Tawake suggested they take the victim to the hospital. Unfortunately, the man later died from severe head injuries at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital.
The court proceedings have been adjourned until Wednesday for concluding submissions, with Justice Rajasinghe anticipated to deliver the sentence on Friday.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior and decision-making, especially when under the influence of substances. It highlights the need for community members to look out for one another and reinforce the values of empathy and support during critical situations.
Leave a comment