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20 April, 2026, 6:17 pm
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IN DEPTH
20 April, 2026, 6:17 pm Central - 24°C Clouds

Drug lord Jone Vakarisi dies in military custody as investigations find unauthorised weapons outside RFMF inventory

Drug lord Jone Vakarisi dies in military custody as investigations find unauthorised weapons outside RFMF inventory

By fijivillage
20/04/2026
Druglord, Jone Vakarisi has died in militsry custoday, 3 other associates have been released after questioning, 1 RFMF personnel remains in military custody to assist with ongoing internal disciplinary investigations while investigations have identified the presence of unauthorized weapons verified as being outside of the RFMF's official inventory


Druglord dies in military custody

By Vijay Narayan
17/04/2026

A drug accused also known as one of the main druglords in the country has passed away after being taken into custody by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

When contacted by fijivillage News, Police confirmed receipt of a report of a case of interest whereby an individual had lost his life at the said facility which is now under investigation.

They say they will release more details soon.

fijivillage News received information that a group of people including the druglord were taken in for questioning by the military earlier this week.

It is alleged that they are gang members.

No further details are known.

fijivillage News had asked the RFMF last month about a military report that drug accused, Jone Vakarisi had entered the RFMF Headquarters at Queen Elizabeth Barracks with 2 x Twin Cabs.

It is alleged that they were allowed through the gate by guards.

This raised the issue of allowing unauthorized entry and showed that security can be bypassed.

A clear directive was then issued regarding this.

No comments were made by the Army Commander.

There are reports emerging that the RFMF is conducting multiple joint raids with the Police.

The raids include the residence of Vakarisi, and his associates.

Some people are believed to have been taken in for questioning.

The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Major General Jone Kalouniwai stressed earlier this week that the RFMF puts on notice that any attempt to destabilize national security or endanger the well-being of citizens will be met with firm, lawful, and proportionate action.

He has made these comments after the RFMF in close coordination with the Fiji Police Force, initiated joint security operations following recent attempts to undermine security at RFMF installations.

The Commander says these operations are being undertaken in strict accordance with the constitutional mandate of the RFMF under the 2013 Constitution, which charges the Force with the responsibility to ensure at all times the security, defence, and well-being of Fiji and all Fijians.

Major General Kalouniwai says in fulfilling this duty, the RFMF is working in support of civil authorities to preserve public order and national stability.

He says the joint response reflects a deliberate and measured approach to recent unacceptable challenges to security, including threats to military infrastructure and isolated acts of violence against civilians and officers in the line of duty.

The Army Commander says such actions not only undermine the rule of law but also threaten the collective safety and confidence of the nation.

Major General Kalouniwai makes it clear that members of the public are reminded that providing shelter, assistance, or support to individuals engaged in criminal activity is an offence and directly undermines national security.

He says such actions compromise not only ongoing investigations but also the broader safety and future of our communities.

The Commander says while a return to normal duties remains the priority, these enhanced security measures will continue for as long as necessary to ensure that a safe, stable, and lawful environment is fully restored.

He says the operations are being conducted with professionalism, discipline, and full respect for the rule of law and the rights of all citizens.

The RFMF reassures all citizens that its actions are guided by its constitutional obligations and its enduring commitment to serve and protect the people of Fiji.

The Commander says public cooperation remains vital, and all are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.



Post mortem result of Vakarisi with investigators - Tudravu

By Vijay Narayan
18/04/2026
Minister for Defence, Pio Tikoduadua
Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu says the post mortem of Jone Vakarisi has been conducted, and the result is now with the investigators for further investigation.

A document is being circulated saying it is his post mortem report.

However Police are not confirming whether it is the report which says severe head and chest injuries.

Tudravu says an investigation is being conducted with regards to the death of Vakarisi following the official lodgment of the report on 17th April 2026.

He says the heads of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and the Fiji Police Force are both in consensus of letting the law take its course, through the conduct of the investigation which is currently underway.

Meanwhile Minister for Defence, Pio Tikoduadua says the reports concerning the death of Jone Vakarisi while in military custody, is a serious matter, and he understands that the Fiji Police Force has confirmed that an investigation is now underway. 

Tikoduadua says at this stage, it would be inappropriate for him to comment on the circumstances of the case while police inquiries are ongoing. 

He says the proper process must be allowed to take its course, and all relevant facts must be established independently and professionally.  

Tikoduadua says any loss of life in such circumstances is a matter of grave concern. 

He expects the full cooperation of all relevant authorities with the police investigation. 

The Minister says accountability, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for due process must remain paramount. 

He urges the public to allow the investigation to proceed without speculation or the spread of misinformation. 

Tikoduadua says further comment should properly follow once the Fiji Police have completed their investigations and the facts are clear. 



Vakarisi dead, 3 released and evidence of unauthorized weapons outside RFMF's inventory - Commander

By Vijay Narayan
18/04/2026
Druglord, Jone Vakarisi has died in military custody, 3 other associates have been released after questioning, 1 Republic of Fiji Military Forces personnel remains in military custody to assist with ongoing internal disciplinary investigations while investigations have identified the presence of unauthorized weapons verified as being outside of the RFMF's official inventory. 

RFMF Commander, Major General Jone Kalouniwai says as part of a joint inquiry into recent security breaches, four individuals voluntarily presented themselves at Queen Elizabeth Barracks to assist with investigations. 

He confirms that of those present, only Jone Vakarisi experienced a medical crisis. 

Major General Kalouniwai says during the formal interview process, Vakarisi suffered a sudden and severe medical emergency. He says immediate and exhaustive life-saving efforts were administered by qualified RFMF medical personnel on-site but unfortunately could not revive him resulting in his unfortunate demise.

The Commander says preliminary medical assessments suggest the presence of a pre-existing condition that may have contributed to his death.

The Army Commander says in strict adherence to the Inquests Act, the RFMF has immediately notified the relevant authorities and referred the matter to the Coroner's Office for an independent and formal inquiry. 

The RFMF deeply regrets this loss of life and emphasizes that such an outcome is never desired. 

The Commander says joint intelligence indicates the existence of an organized criminal network attempting to compromise national stability. 

He says the documentation suggests a continued intent by this network to target state infrastructure, posing a credible threat to public safety.

The RFMF remains committed to its constitutional duty to protect the security and well-being of all Fijians. 

They reiterate that any attempt to destabilize the nation or unlawfully access military assets will be met with firm, lawful, and proportionate action.

The public is reminded that providing material support to individuals engaged in these criminal activities is a serious offence under Fiji law.

The Joint Task Force continues its operations to neutralize these threats and ensure the restoration of a safe and stable environment.

fijivillage News had received information that a group of people including the druglord were taken in for questioning by the military.

It is alleged that they are gang members.

No further details are known.

fijivillage News had asked the RFMF last month about a military report that drug accused, Jone Vakarisi had entered the RFMF Headquarters at Queen Elizabeth Barracks with 2 Twin Cabs. 

It is alleged that they were allowed through the gates by the guards. 

This raised the issue of allowing unauthorized entry and showed that security can be bypassed. 

A clear directive was then issued regarding this. 

No comments were made by the Army Commander. 

The RFMF is conducting multiple joint raids with the Police. 

The raids include the residence of Vakarisi, and his associates. 



Police remain silent on Vakarisi's post mortem report

By Vijay Narayan
19/04/2026
Police continue to remain silent today as a document is circulated saying it is drug convict, Jone Vakarisi's post mortem report. 

Although fijivillage News has been asking the Police since yesterday, they are not confirming whether it is the post mortem report of Vakarisi which says he died from severe head and chest injuries.

Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu says the post mortem of Jone Vakarisi has been conducted, and the result is now with the investigators for further investigation.

Tudravu says an investigation is being conducted with regards to the death of Vakarisi following the official lodgement of the report on 17th April 2026.

He says the heads of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and the Fiji Police Force are both in consensus of letting the law take its course, through the conduct of the investigation which is currently underway.

Meanwhile Minister for Defence, Pio Tikoduadua says the reports concerning the death of Jone Vakarisi while in military custody, is a serious matter, and he understands that the Fiji Police Force has confirmed that an investigation is now underway. 

Tikoduadua says at this stage, it would be inappropriate for him to comment on the circumstances of the case while police inquiries are ongoing. 

He says the proper process must be allowed to take its course, and all relevant facts must be established independently and professionally.  

Tikoduadua says any loss of life in such circumstances is a matter of grave concern. 

He expects the full cooperation of all relevant authorities with the police investigation. 

The Minister says accountability, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for due process must remain paramount. 

He urges the public to allow the investigation to proceed without speculation or the spread of misinformation. 

Tikoduadua says further comment should properly follow once the Fiji Police have completed their investigations and the facts are clear. 

The military has not made any further comments.


Death Certificate of Jone Vakarisi in circulation is a police document - Police

By Vijay Narayan
19/04/2026
Police confirm that the Death Certificate of drug convict, Jone Vakarisi in circulation is a police document that is issued after the conduct of a post mortem examination.

While responding to questions, Police say the copies are provided to the next of kin and to the investigating officer.

They say the investigation is ongoing as statements continue to be gathered by investigators.

The document being circulated says Vakarisi died from severe head and chest injuries.

The report says the condition directly leading to his death is asphyxia.
Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu earlier said the post mortem of Jone Vakarisi has been conducted, and the result is now with the investigators for further investigation.

Tudravu says an investigation is being conducted with regards to the death of Vakarisi following the official lodgement of the report on 17th April 2026.

He says the heads of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and the Fiji Police Force are both in consensus of letting the law take its course, through the conduct of the investigation which is currently underway.

Meanwhile Minister for Defence, Pio Tikoduadua says the reports concerning the death of Jone Vakarisi while in military custody, is a serious matter, and he understands that the Fiji Police Force has confirmed that an investigation is now underway. 

Tikoduadua says at this stage, it would be inappropriate for him to comment on the circumstances of the case while police inquiries are ongoing. 

He says the proper process must be allowed to take its course, and all relevant facts must be established independently and professionally.  

Tikoduadua says any loss of life in such circumstances is a matter of grave concern. 

He expects the full cooperation of all relevant authorities with the police investigation. 

The Minister says accountability, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for due process must remain paramount. 

He urges the public to allow the investigation to proceed without speculation or the spread of misinformation. 

Tikoduadua says further comment should properly follow once the Fiji Police have completed their investigations and the facts are clear. 

The military has not made any further comments.

Vakarisi died in military custody, 3 other associates have been released after questioning, 1 Republic of Fiji Military Forces personnel remains in military custody to assist with ongoing internal disciplinary investigations while 
investigations have identified the presence of unauthorized weapons verified as being outside of the RFMF's official inventory. 

RFMF Commander, Major General Jone Kalouniwai has said that as part of a joint inquiry into recent security breaches, four individuals voluntarily presented themselves at Queen Elizabeth Barracks to assist with investigations. 

He confirms that of those present, only  Jone Vakarisi experienced a medical crisis. 

Major General Kalouniwai says during the formal interview process, Vakarisi suffered a sudden and severe medical emergency. He says immediate and exhaustive life-saving efforts were administered by qualified RFMF medical personnel on-site but unfortunately could not revive him resulting in his unfortunate demise. 

The Commander says preliminary medical assessments suggest the presence of a pre-existing condition that may have contributed to his death. 

The Army Commander says in strict adherence to the Inquests Act 1967, the RFMF has immediately notified the relevant authorities and referred the matter to the Coroner's Office for an independent and formal inquiry. 

The RFMF deeply regrets this loss of life and emphasizes that such an outcome is never desired. 
The Commander says joint intelligence indicates the existence of an organized criminal network attempting to compromise national stability. 

He says the documentation suggests a continued intent by this network to target state infrastructure, posing a credible threat to public safety. 

The RFMF remains committed to its constitutional duty to protect the security and well-being of all Fijians. 

They reiterate that any attempt to destabilize the nation or unlawfully access military assets will be met with firm, lawful, and proportionate action. The public is reminded that providing material support to individuals engaged in these criminal activities is a serious offense under Fiji law. 

The Joint Task Force continues its operations to neutralize these threats and ensure the restoration of a safe and stable environment.



Jone Vakarisi's death classified as murder

By Vijay Narayan
20/04/2026
The investigation into the death of drug convict, Jone Vakarisi has been classified as murder.

Police investigators are in the process of gathering information to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding Vakarisi's death. 

Police say the heads of the two institutions are reaffirming their commitment towards the conduct of a thorough investigation, and are appealing once again to members of the public to allow the investigative process to run its course.

Following confirmation by the Commander of the Republic of the Fiji Military Forces, Major General Jone Kalouniwai that investigations have identified the presence of unauthorized weapons verified as being outside of the RFMF's official inventory, questions are arising on where are these weapons.

We have questioned Police and the RFMF on what is being done to find these weapons.

They are yet to respond.
 
Vakarisi died in military custody, 3 other associates have been released after questioning, and 1 Republic of Fiji Military Forces personnel remains in military custody to assist with ongoing internal disciplinary investigations.

Major General Kalouniwai has said that as part of a joint inquiry into recent security breaches, four individuals voluntarily presented themselves at Queen Elizabeth Barracks to assist with investigations. 

He confirms that of those present, only Jone Vakarisi experienced a medical crisis. 

The Army Commander says in strict adherence to the Inquests Act 1967, the RFMF has immediately notified the relevant authorities and referred the matter to the Coroner's Office for an independent and formal inquiry. 

He says a documentation suggests a continued intent by this criminal network to target state infrastructure, posing a credible threat to public safety. 

They reiterate that any attempt to destabilize the nation or unlawfully access military assets will be met with firm, lawful, and proportionate action.

The public is reminded that providing material support to individuals engaged in these criminal activities is a serious offence under Fiji law. 

The Joint Task Force continues its operations to neutralize these threats and ensure the restoration of a safe and stable environment.

Meanwhile Police confirm that the Death Certificate of drug convict, Jone Vakarisi in circulation is a police document that is issued after the conduct of a post mortem examination.

While responding to questions, Police say the copies are provided to the next of kin and to the investigating officer.

They say the investigation is ongoing as statements continue to be gathered by investigators.

The death certificate being circulated says Vakarisi died from severe head and chest injuries.

The report says the condition directly leading to his death is asphyxia.






Chief Justice Temo closes Vakarisi's drugs case

By Rashika Kumar
20/04/2026
Chief Justice Salesi Temo has closed the case where late Jone Vakarisi was found with drugs within the confines of the court in 2023.

This comes as Vakarisi died in military custody on Thursday night. 

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions made an application for abatement of proceedings due to his death.

The court requested for the death certificate to get the medical cause.

The ODPP says they obtained the death certificate after approval for release of the certificate was granted by the Director CID and submitted in court.

Upon consideration of the medical evidence, Chief Justice Temo granted the abatement application.

The ODPP had appealed Vakarisi's suspended sentence for having marijuana within the confines of the court on the 19th January, 2023.

The hearing on the grounds of appeal was supposed to be held today. 

He was found with 15.2 grams of marijuana and sentenced to 3 months imprisonment, suspended for two years by the Magistrates Court.


NGO Coalition calls on independent and transparent investigation in relation to Vakarisi's death

By Mansi Chand, Vijay Narayan
20/04/2026
The NGO Coalition on Human Rights is calling for an independent and transparent investigation into the death of Jone Vakarisi while in the custody of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

They are calling on the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission to exercise its mandate and investigate Vakarisi's death and the circumstances surrounding the detention of the other people.

They say Vakarisi was alive when he was taken into custody by the RFMF and his death while in custody warrants the highest level of scrutiny, accountability and urgency.

They say at the same time, families of other detained men are being forced to publicly beg for access to their husbands, pleading to see them, to confirm that they are alive and safe.

The NGO Coalition says this is unacceptable, inhumane and a direct violation of basic human rights.

They remind the State that the right to life is fundamental, and that the prohibition of torture and 
cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment is absolute.

These protections are enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji, including Section 8 (right to life), Section 11 (freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman, degrading or disproportionately severe treatment), and Section 13 (rights of arrested and detained persons).

They strongly call for the Police to take the lead in these joint operations and for the RFMF to only assist when necessary.

They say all civilians must be questioned in Police custody, not in military custody at any RFMF camp or facility.

They further emphasises the importance of strict adherence to established custodial safeguards, including the First Hour Procedure.

The NGO Coalition says this includes informing detainees of the reasons for their arrest, their right to remain silent, and allowing access to their right to legal counsel, and facilitating timely communication with family members.

Chair Shamima Ali says if anything, moments like this demand greater transparency, not less.
 
The NGO Coalition stresses that Fiji has a history that reminds us of what happens when the RFMF operates without due process and oversight.

Meanwhile, the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is also calling for a prompt and independent investigation into Vakaris's death in military custody ensuring accountability where breaches of law are found.
 
Vakarisi died in military custody, 3 other associates were released after questioning, and one RFMF personnel remains in military custody to assist with ongoing internal disciplinary investigations while investigations have identified the presence of unauthorized weapons verified as being outside of the RFMF's official inventory. .

RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai has said that as part of a joint inquiry into recent security breaches, four individuals voluntarily presented themselves at Queen Elizabeth Barracks to assist with investigations. 

He confirms that of those present, only Vakarisi experienced a medical crisis.

According to the post mortem document Vakarisi died from severe head and chest injuries.

Police continue their investigation while questions have been sent to the Human Rights Commission on whether they will begin an independent investigation. 




Jone Vakarisi's death classified as murder

By Vijay Narayan
20/04/2026
The investigation into the death of drug convict, Jone Vakarisi has been classified as murder.

Police investigators are in the process of gathering information to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding Vakarisi's death. 

Police say the heads of the two institutions are reaffirming their commitment towards the conduct of a thorough investigation, and are appealing once again to members of the public to allow the investigative process to run its course.

Following confirmation by the Commander of the Republic of the Fiji Military Forces, Major General Jone Kalouniwai that investigations have identified the presence of unauthorized weapons verified as being outside of the RFMF's official inventory, questions are arising on where are these weapons.

We have questioned Police and the RFMF on what is being done to find these weapons.

They are yet to respond.
 
Vakarisi died in military custody, 3 other associates have been released after questioning, and 1 Republic of Fiji Military Forces personnel remains in military custody to assist with ongoing internal disciplinary investigations.

Major General Kalouniwai has said that as part of a joint inquiry into recent security breaches, four individuals voluntarily presented themselves at Queen Elizabeth Barracks to assist with investigations. 

He confirms that of those present, only Jone Vakarisi experienced a medical crisis. 

The Army Commander says in strict adherence to the Inquests Act 1967, the RFMF has immediately notified the relevant authorities and referred the matter to the Coroner's Office for an independent and formal inquiry. 

He says a documentation suggests a continued intent by this criminal network to target state infrastructure, posing a credible threat to public safety. 

They reiterate that any attempt to destabilize the nation or unlawfully access military assets will be met with firm, lawful, and proportionate action.

The public is reminded that providing material support to individuals engaged in these criminal activities is a serious offence under Fiji law. 

The Joint Task Force continues its operations to neutralize these threats and ensure the restoration of a safe and stable environment.

Meanwhile Police confirm that the Death Certificate of drug convict, Jone Vakarisi in circulation is a police document that is issued after the conduct of a post mortem examination.

While responding to questions, Police say the copies are provided to the next of kin and to the investigating officer.

They say the investigation is ongoing as statements continue to be gathered by investigators.

The death certificate being circulated says Vakarisi died from severe head and chest injuries.

The report says the condition directly leading to his death is asphyxia.





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