FOUR national 7s representatives currently playing in India for the Rugby Premier League have been suspended without pay.
Waisea Nacuqu, Terio Tamani, Joseva Talacolo and Filipe Sauturaga, all police officers, have been suspended from the Fiji Police Force.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu confirmed their suspension.
“The request from the Fiji Rugby Union management came late. They were already playing in India before the release came into place.
“So, they are being interdicted and suspended at this point in time. They are suspended without salary,” he said.
Tudravu asserted that the Fiji Police Force has its processes and procedures that must be followed.
“They will come back and be disciplined.
“They are in the discipline force, and they should know what procedures to follow, whether it is a national game or any other commitment.
“They know they are in the disciplinary force and there are processes and systems in place,” he said.
The India Rugby League is scheduled to conclude next Monday.
Meanwhile, Fiji men’s 7s manager Willie Baleinabuli admitted the request was sent late.
“Yes, the release letter was sent late. Discussions regarding the release of the players were conducted by the former CEO and acting general manager high performance,” he said.
The team manager said the request should have come from the players.
“It is important to clarify that the FRU only writes release letters for national team duties. In this case, the players had signed short-term contracts directly with the respective clubs.”
