A 21-year-old maritime student is currently hospitalized following an alleged assault by a police officer after a fight broke out in Nausori on Sunday morning. Vilikesa Bari, who is in his final year at Fiji National University, had been waiting for transportation with his cousin after attending a birthday celebration with his mother, Una Qionimacawa.
Around 12:30 AM, a brawl erupted nearby, and Bari attempted to intervene after noticing police officers were present. However, he claims that a police officer misinterpreted his actions and forcibly transported him to a police vehicle. During this transfer, Bari alleges that he was struck in the head with a torch and suffered further physical abuse at the Nausori Police Station.
From his hospital bed, Bari recounted the incident, stating, “He threw a few punches, kicked me, and dragged me to a table,” adding that the officer admonished him not to educate them on their duties. In a troubling development, upon receiving medical care at Nausori Health Centre, Bari claims that the same officer visited him and attempted to bribe him with $500 to drop the matter.
Bari’s mother expressed her heartbreak upon learning of her son’s situation, emphasizing her desperation for the authorities to take action against this alleged misconduct. The Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua—known for advocating against police violence—has yet to issue a statement on the case, but the Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, has ordered an immediate investigation into the allegations. A police spokesperson confirmed that the Director of Internal Affairs would conduct a thorough review of the assault claims.
This incident arrives amid ongoing scrutiny of police behavior, particularly highlighted in the recent Fiji National Security and Defence Review (NSDR), which noted police brutality as a significant concern.
While the situation is undoubtedly distressing, there is hope in the proactive approach taken by the authorities as investigations are initiated. This could be an opportunity for reform and improved accountability within the police force, demonstrating a commitment to upholding the law and protecting citizens’ rights. The community remains hopeful that this situation will lead to meaningful change in police conduct and greater transparency moving forward.
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