Although there are claims that a Joint Police/Military team was allegedly involved in a raid and assault at a Kinoya home at the end of April which eventually resulted in the death of Sakiasi Ose Radravu last week, Police say they are investigating 12 Police officers as part of their internal investigation.
When asked by fijivillage News on whether any of the military personnel were involved in the raid, Police say the internal investigation is looking into the alleged involvement of the 12 Police officers.
They say the involvement of anyone else will be determined in the investigation.
Police say the 12 Police officers were part of a team on duty that night and the internal investigation will determine more.
When asked on the claims regarding the post mortem and allegations that a pair of handcuffs was put into the man, Police will not comment.
A directive has been issued to investigate officers involved in the initial arrest and detention of Radravu, as well as the apparent lack of supervisory oversight.
The Fiji Police Force acknowledges that non-compliance with due process continues to contribute to complaints against the organisation and its officers.
Police say a post-mortem examination on Radravu was conducted, with immediate family members present for formal identification before the examination.
The family was later briefed on the cause of death, which police say has been linked to a pre-existing medical condition.
Police records from Valelevu Police Station confirm that Radravu was taken in for questioning on the night of April 23rd in relation to an alleged burglary case.
He was held in custody and later released.
Police also confirmed that, according to his family, no official report alleging assault was lodged following his arrest.
To ensure transparency, police say the case file will be forwarded to the Resident Magistrate along with the findings and recommendations for a possible inquest.
