DEFENCE and Veteran Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua has urged the public to allow the investigation into the death of Jone Vakarisi to proceed without speculation or the spread of misinformation.
Mr Tikoduadua yesterday said he had been made aware of reports concerning the death of an individual while in military custody and acknowledged that the Fiji Police Force had confirmed an investigation was underway.
“This is a serious matter, and I understand that the Fiji Police Force has confirmed that an investigation is now underway.”
Mr Tikoduadua said it would be inappropriate for him to comment on the circumstances of the case while police inquiries were ongoing, stressing the need for due process.
“The proper process must be allowed to take its course, and all relevant facts must be established independently and professionally.”
He described any loss of life in such circumstances as a matter of grave concern and called for the full cooperation of all relevant authorities with the police investigation.
“Accountability, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for due process must remain paramount,” Mr Tikoduadua said.
“Further comment should properly follow once the Fiji Police have completed their investigations and the facts are clear.”
