Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho has confirmed that the Criminal Investigations Department is heading an investigation with regards to an alleged complaint against Police officers lodged at the Vatukoula Police Station.
Qiliho says a 20 year old farmer of Natolevu claimed he was assaulted by Police officers when he was arrested for an alleged case of theft of livestock which was found slaughtered in the Natolevu Village Mountains on the 27th of March.
The Commissioner confirms a team from CID Headquarters is currently conducting interviews.
He stresses that all reports against Police officers and services will be investigated thoroughly and dealt with accordingly through their internal disciplinary processes and if charged, officers will be produced in Court.
Naqia Case
Meanwhile Police Chief of Intelligence and Investigations, ACP Biu Matavou says the investigation file into the alleged claims of assault involving Police officers in Naqia is with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for independent legal advice.
The file was sent last week.
Qiliho had earlier directed that 9 Police officers be suspended and will await the outcome of the investigation.
The serious claims first surfaced on Facebook where the man’s sister claimed that her brother was allegedly thrown off the bridge in Naqia by police officers in civilian clothing.
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations