A key witness in a murder trial involving the death of a remand prisoner in Lautoka was questioned about the extent to which corrections officers were obligated to follow unlawful orders from superiors. The witness, Suliasi Tubuna, provided testimony before High Court Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge regarding the alleged murder and assault of Jone Masirewa, who died from severe traumatic injuries.
The incident occurred on April 13, 2020, and involved Tubuna, a former temporary corrections officer who was granted immunity to testify against others charged in connection with the case. He recalled following orders from Onisimo Raboiliku, a senior officer at the Lautoka Corrections Centre, which included physically assaulting Masirewa and another prisoner for what was deemed disrespectful behavior.
Tubuna stated that he personally struck Jone Nawalu, another remand prisoner, and clarified that he had been obliged to follow orders from Raboiliku, which included instructions to “kick and punch” Masirewa as part of a drill-like exercise. He mentioned an interaction with Masirewa earlier that day, where the victim reportedly asked for forgiveness, highlighting the human aspect of the tragedy.
Defense counsel for Raboiliku challenged Tubuna’s testimony, suggesting he had misled police during a caution interview regarding the nature of the orders he received. Tubuna denied this and asserted that certain details were omitted from his initial statement due to oversight during the police interview.
In a parallel account, Jone Nawalu testified about the harsh treatment prisoners endured, describing the exercises ordered by Raboiliku as reminiscent of torture, and noted that Masirewa sustained serious injuries from the actions of the officers involved.
The trial continues today, probing the chain of events that led to Masirewa’s tragic death and the degree of accountability held by the corrections officers involved. The ongoing judicial proceedings reflect the critical importance of ensuring justice and accountability within correctional facilities, a sentiment echoed by similar cases of misconduct involving law enforcement.
Overall, this trial serves as a critical examination of the responsibilities of corrections officers and shines a light on the need for reforms and improved standards in the treatment of prisoners, working towards a justice system that upholds human rights and dignity for all.
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