A post-mortem examination was carried out on the farmer Marika Radua, who passed away after being taken into custody at the Savusavu Police Station. Radua, a resident of Naviavia Village in Cakaudrove, died on Tuesday following an alleged assault by another inmate while in his cell.
The Divisional Police Commander for the Northern region, Senior Superintendent of Police Kemueli Baledrokadroka, confirmed that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. He stated that further updates will be provided once the investigation is complete.
An initial announcement from the Fiji Police Force indicated that Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has instructed CID personnel to look into the matter. Following the incident, police officers swiftly transported Radua to Savusavu Hospital, where he was declared dead upon arrival.
Marika Sade, an advisory councillor in Naviavia Village, revealed that Radua was arrested early Tuesday morning after allegedly setting ablaze a family house around 3 AM. In a tragic turn of events, the deceased’s mother is currently experiencing trauma, having lost both her son and the family home within the same week. She is now staying with relatives away from the village for her emotional support.
This unfortunate incident raises important questions about the conditions within detention facilities and the need for thorough investigations to ensure the safety of all individuals in custody. The ongoing investigation by the CID has the potential to provide clarity and accountability regarding this tragic situation.
It is hoped that through these investigations, necessary reforms can be implemented to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future, fostering a safer environment for all individuals within the justice system.
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