Military Distances Itself From Tuiteci Case

The Republic of the Fiji Military Forces said it would not associate itself with the current case regarding Captain Seremaia Tuiteci, who was charged with allegedly resisting arrest and assaulting a police officer.

The RFMF Media Cell said in a statement this afternoon that the current case regarding Captain Tuiteci was personal and had no relevance to the force in his current status as a Reserve Officer.

The RFMF stressed that the military and Police would continue to work together to address the law and order and national security situation in the country. The RFMF said this partnership was sound and cordial and any statements made to the contrary were malicious attempts to undermine the two forces.

The RFMF also clarified that Captain Tuiteci was not a senior officer of the military. They pointed out that the ranks of Major and above are considered Senior Officers.

It also clarified that Tuiteci was not seconded to the Prime Minister’s Office from the RFMF as he is a Civil Servant under the direction of the Public Service Commission.

Police Commissioner Commodore Esala Teleni earlier said that Captain Tuiteci’s allegations that his arrest was a personal attack and a result of police officers objecting to working with the military, is far-fetched and would be viewed by the police as a defensive allegation.

Commodore Teleni said the allegation was serious and undermined the good relationship already established between the disciplined forces. Captain Tuiteci has been released on bail to appear in the Suva Magistrates court on May 7th for a plea to be taken.