Our zero tolerance policy on assault still stands – Acting Corrections Commissioner

Acting Commissioner of Fiji Corrections Service, Salote Panapasa says the recent death of the inmate at the CWM Hospital is unfortunate.

Panapasa says the Corrections Service as per protocol are in the process of conducting its own Board of Inquiry into the matter.

She assures the public at large that the zero tolerance policy on assault still stands.

The Acting Commissioner says they have visited the family and informed them of the action taken.

Panapasa says it is unfortunate that many have already judged the Fiji Corrections Service before gathering the facts.

However, she says it does not and will not impact the level of care which Corrections officers take daily in regards to the treatment of those under their care.

She says at the end of the day, the wellbeing of the inmates is their priority.

Police have released a statement that the inmate passed away after he was allegedly assaulted by some Fiji Corrections Service officers. The Criminal Investigations Department is investigating the death of the man who was allegedly assaulted whilst serving time at the Korovou Corrections Centre.

Chief of Intelligence, Investigations and Prosecutions Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sakeo Raikaci says the victim was admitted at the CWM Hospital on the 23rd of March after he was allegedly assaulted by Corrections officers. ACP Raikaci says the victim passed away a few days later, and the matter was reported earlier this week.