6 February, 2026, 7:42 am Central - 23°C Clouds

28-year-old Police officer charged with murder
People ask why the officer was allowed to fully cover his face outside the Suva courthouse

28-year-old Police officer charged with murder

People ask why the officer was allowed to fully cover his face outside the Suva courthouse

By Mosese Raqio , Vijay Narayan
23/01/2024

A 28-year-old Police Officer who has been accused of murdering a man in Suva City last week, has been remanded in custody.

Fifita Tawake Toma appeared before Magistrate Pulekeria Low yesterday afternoon.

He is charged with one count of murder.

It is alleged that on the 13th of January this year, Toma assaulted Peter Lanyon, who was intoxicated.

The victim died from the injuries suffered.

Toma has been remanded in custody until the 6th of February.

His case has been transferred to the High Court.

Meanwhile concerns have been raised on why the charged Police officer was allowed to fully cover his face and be quickly escorted by Police outside the Suva courthouse.

People are asking whether this is to favour an officer charged compared to any other member of the public.

When questioned by fijivillage News, Assistant Police Commissioner Crime, Mesake Waqa confirms this is not allowed and not part of the standard procedures of escorting prisoners.

He says they will address the conduct of this particular officer.

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