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.
