A devastating incident at the Savusavu Police Station has left a family devastated and the local community in turmoil. Marika Radua, a farmer from Naviavia Settlement in Cakaudrove, tragically lost his life on Tuesday after being allegedly assaulted by a cellmate.
Radua was taken into custody early Tuesday for an alleged transgression and was held for nearly six hours. His aunt, Unaisi Solaila, shared that her cousin, Samuela Male, had visited that morning and discovered Radua confined in a cell with two other men, one of whom is believed to have mental health issues. Male reported hearing Radua’s desperate cries for help around 11 a.m. but, fearing potential repercussions, he did not step in to assist.
Approximately an hour later, police officers were seen carrying Radua’s lifeless body from the cell. Solaila was quoted saying, “They treated him like rubbish,” suggesting that by that point, his death was already evident.
This traumatic event has led Radua’s family to seek clarity and accountability from authorities. They are left with pressing questions: What were the police doing during the alleged attack? Why was a mentally challenged person placed in a cell with other detainees? And why were Radua’s cries for help ignored?
Solaila expressed the family’s dismay, highlighting that individuals should feel secure while in police custody and questioning how such a tragedy could transpire.
The incident has ignited community anger, prompting calls for a reformation of personnel at the Savusavu Police Station. Shiu Shankar Singh, the special administrator of Savusavu Town Council, has raised concerns regarding police misconduct and called for immediate initiatives to restore public confidence and improve professional conduct within the force.
In response to the incident, Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew has ordered an inquiry by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). Police confirmed that Radua was allegedly assaulted by another detainee and that officers attempted to transport him to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has also expressed serious worries, with Chairperson Pravesh Sharma emphasizing that the state holds responsibility for the safety of individuals in custody.
Radua’s family, already grappling with the loss of their home in a recent fire, now faces the heart-wrenching reality of losing a loved one in such tragic circumstances.
In light of this incident, it is hopeful that the ongoing investigation will bring about vital changes to ensure the safety and rights of individuals in custody. The collective outcry for justice and accountability may instigate necessary reforms that could help prevent future tragedies.
It is essential for communities to come together in such heartbreaking times, fostering open dialogue with authorities to improve safety measures and uphold the dignity of every individual under their care.
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