Rugby Players Assaulted: Nightclub Bouncers Under Fire

Akuila Masi, the former manager of the Vusu Raiders rugby league team, expressed his dismay over a recent violent incident involving bouncers at a popular nightclub in Suva. Seven players from the team were assaulted, with two currently unconscious at CWM Hospital and three others receiving treatment at Sigatoka Hospital. Masi described the situation as deeply unfortunate and emphasized the need for proper medical care for the injured players.

He highlighted the irony that those tasked with ensuring the safety of club patrons were instead perpetrating violence. “The use of stools and timber to beat individuals who were nearly defenseless is unacceptable. We will work with the police to ensure the safety of these players,” said Masi.

Prominent Suva lawyer Jon Apted called for the Fiji Police Force to take action against nightclub owners, arguing that the incident could have been avoided if the government prosecuted establishments under the Liquor Act for serving alcohol to intoxicated individuals. He urged for a review and increase of the current $400 fine, suggesting that stricter penalties could help improve nightlife behavior.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Livai Driu confirmed that an investigation is underway. He noted that officers have begun questioning nightclub staff who were on duty during the incident and have provided assistance to the injured players.

Witness accounts suggest that the conflict initially broke out inside the nightclub before the group was forced outside by the bouncers. Some team members tried to intervene but were met with violence, resulting in injuries to several players.

This incident raises crucial questions about safety measures in nightlife venues and the responsibility of bouncers to de-escalate rather than escalate conflicts. The continuation of investigations by the police highlights a commitment to ensuring accountability, and hopefully, it will lead to improved safety protocols in the future. Through these efforts, there is hope for creating a safer environment for all patrons.