3 Dec 2020

Fiji police officers questioned over suspect's death

7:58 pm on 3 December 2020

Fiji police have questioned eight of officers over their alleged involvement in the death of a robbery suspect last month.

No caption.

Photo: RNZ Pacific/Koroi Hawkins

Police said the investigation file into the man's death had been sent to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for assessment.

Mesake Sinu died during his arrest at a house in Nadi on 12 October.

Police said Sinu and an accomplice were disturbed by the occupants of the home they allegedly broke into.

Police claimed Sinu had jumped from the building and sustained serious injuries.

Acting Commissioner, Rusiate Tudravu, said disciplinary action would be decided once the DPP made his decision based on the findings of his investigation.

The Human Rights Commissioner, Ashwin Raj, said based on witness statements, it had established that Sinu had "allegedly sustained injuries in the course of his apprehension".

In a statement, Raj said witnesses claimed excessive force may have been used during his arrest as they heard the victim crying in pain and agony.

Rusiate Tudravu.

Acting Police Commissioner, Rusiate Tudravu Photo: Fiji Police Force