A police officer who was injured while carrying out joint traffic operations with the Land Transport Authority of Fiji in Labasa has unfortunately passed away.
The Fiji Police Force confirms that the 46-year-old officer was conducting a traffic stop on the Labasa–Naseakula Road on Saturday when a truck driven by a 45-year-old man hit two parked vehicles, which then struck the two men standing on the roadside.
Police say the officer was trapped under the truck and was rushed to Labasa Hospital, where he was admitted in serious condition. He sadly passed away early this morning.
They say the second victim remains admitted in hospital.
Investigations are ongoing, and the suspect will be questioned soon.
The Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, has conveyed the organisation’s condolences to the late officer’s family, adding that the loss is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by police officers daily.
Commissioner Tudravu says the rise in the number of road accidents and deaths is concerning, and once again urged drivers and all road users to take road safety seriously.
He says his thoughts and prayers are with the officer’s family, and that necessary support will be provided in accordance with the officer's final rites.
