Fijivillage
NEWS SPORTS IN DEPTH
16 March, 2026, 10:55 pm
Central - 25°C Rain
16 March, 2026, 10:55 pm Central - 25°C Rain

Suspect in Samabula Shiv Mandir desecration case referred for psychiatric evaluation

Suspect in Samabula Shiv Mandir desecration case referred for psychiatric evaluation

By Rashika Kumar
12/07/2025

The suspect who allegedly entered and desecrated the Sanatan Shiv Mandir in Samabula yesterday afternoon has been referred for a psychiatric evaluation.

This has been confirmed by police who say the man was arrested following the incident.

Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji General Secretary Krishneel Tiwari says the man allegedly jumped over the fence and destroyed many idols with an iron rod yesterday afternoon.

Tiwari says they are deeply hurt by the incident as idols that were in the temple since the early 1900s when the temple was first established, have been destroyed.

Tiwari has thanked police for their swift action in arresting the man.

He is also calling on the Fiji Police Force to provide patrolling during the day as well.

Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu says increased efforts are placed on the investigation of cases of sacrilege and the apprehension of the suspect involved.

While responding to questions by fijivillage News, Tudravu says operations will look into the issues raised regarding patrols.

He says patrols are conducted, and they will liaise with the Sabha to look at how, together, joint security measures can be enhanced.

Meanwhile, a special Shanti Visarjan Poojan was conducted at the temple by the Sabha.

FEATURE NEWS
We have upto 45 days of fuel supply with at least 1 shipment on it's way - Immanuel
As cabinet meets tomorrow to firm-up on the plan of action for the long term, if there is no resolution to the conflict in the Middle East in the near...
3 hours ago
LATEST NEWS
Mataitini calls on PM to call National Security Council meeting
In an open letter to the Prime Minister, Rewa chief and Great Council of Chiefs member, Ro Naulu Mataitini has asked where is the government when it ...
1 hour ago

We have upto 45 days of fuel supply with at least 1 shipment on it's way - Immanuel
As cabinet meets tomorrow to firm-up on the plan of action for the long term, if there is no resolution to the conflict in the Middle East in the ...
3 hours ago

Fuel supply sufficient, Cabinet to discuss long-term plans tomorrow
As the Fiji Government continues to stress that fuel supply in the country is sufficient to meet the energy needs for the next few months, the ...
4 hours ago

Vakarisi to appear in High Court again on 30th March for 2023 drug matter
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has appealed Jone Vakarisi sentencing for having marijuana within the confines of the court on ...
5 hours ago

No Fiji Airways routes affected amid Middle East tensions
No Fiji Airways routes have been affected by airspace closures or operational restrictions linked to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The ...
6 hours ago



Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

CFL radio frequencies
IN DEPTH
Fiji Sports Council Saga: Minister ready to repay business class air fare for wife as concerns grow about Sports Council deals
I was invited to travel to New Zealand by the Fiji Sports Council for a grassroots 7s tournament in 2024, I travelled business class but it was ...
10 days ago

National Talanoa Session on Illicit Drugs in Fiji: 2,400 drug-related cases recorded in 2025
The illicit drug situation in Fiji has been described as a national emergency, with 2,400 drug-related cases recorded in 2025. Minister for Policing ...
17 days ago

Charlie Charters held at Nadi Airport because of a FICAC flag on his file
Fijian national, Charlie Charters is being held at immigration at Nadi International Airport because of a FICAC flag on his file.fijivillage News has ...
18 days ago

TOP