The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is continuing its investigation into allegations of assault involving police officers and a military officer in Dakuni Village, Beqa, following the death of 39-year-old Iveri Tuimasi.
Police confirmed that a report of alleged assault was initially lodged by Tuimasi’s wife with the Internal Affairs Department on March 31, 2026. Due to the nature of the complaint, the matter was referred to CID for investigation.
In a statement, Police said investigators have recorded statements from the victim’s wife, medical officials and villagers prior to Tuimasi’s passing. The investigation is expected to progress further once the results of a post-mortem examination, scheduled for Monday, June 22, are received.
“Investigations continue,” Police said.
The case has attracted public attention after Tuimasi’s wife, Ana Vakarawara, detailed the family’s account of events in a social media post.
According to Vakarawara, a police raid was conducted in Dakuni Village on March 27, during which her husband was allegedly assaulted by seven to eight officers, including a soldier. She claimed officers discovered two marijuana plants during the operation.
While acknowledging the role of law enforcement in investigating criminal activity, Vakarawara said she believed no individual should be subjected to excessive force or violence.
She alleged that her husband suffered severe internal injuries, including a ruptured liver, as a result of the assault and was initially taken to Navua Hospital before being transferred to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, where he underwent three surgeries.
Vakarawara further claimed that officers continued searching the property instead of ensuring immediate medical attention was provided, potentially worsening his condition.
She said she subsequently visited several police and military offices, including Totogo and Navua Police Stations, the Mobile Unit Headquarters, CID offices, military headquarters and Police Headquarters, seeking accountability and updates on the investigation.
According to Vakarawara, police officers visited her husband while he was hospitalized but were unable to record his statement because he was physically weak and traumatized by his injuries and surgeries.
She also questioned claims that her husband’s injuries resulted from a fall, alleging that the explanation did not reflect what her husband had told her about the incident.
“My family is not seeking special treatment. We are simply seeking the truth, accountability and justice,” she wrote.
“We believe that those responsible should be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their positions or authority.”
Police have not commented on the specific allegations raised by Vakarawara, stating only that the matter remains under active investigation.
The findings of the post-mortem examination are expected to play a key role in determining the next steps in the investigation.
