The investigation into the death of a man while in custody at the Savusavu Police Station on November 5 is poised to yield critical insights for the Fiji Police Force. Home Affairs and Immigration Minister, Pio Tikoduadua, underscored the need for learning from this unfortunate incident during his visit to Labasa, acknowledging that such events are unacceptable.
Tikoduadua emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare of individuals in custody, outlining that improvements in police infrastructure are necessary to support this goal. He mentioned hearing concerns regarding the mental health of the detainee involved and stressed the need for enhanced training and knowledge among police officers to address such issues effectively.
“It is vital that we ensure a safe and supportive environment for those in custody,” he remarked, insisting that while the circumstances can be challenging, the imperative is to provide better conditions and training for police personnel to identify and manage vulnerable individuals effectively.
The ongoing investigation pertains to the tragic death of Marika Radua, a farmer from Naviavia Settlement, who was reportedly assaulted by another detainee before being taken to the Savusavu Sub-divisional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibilities law enforcement holds towards those they detain and presents an opportunity for systemic improvements to safeguard the well-being of all individuals in custody. Continuous enhancements in training and facility standards could pave the way for a more supportive and secure environment, fostering trust between the community and the police force.
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