Media reports claiming that crew members of a foreign airline, who were allegedly robbed and sexually assaulted, were detained, are incorrect and false, says Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka.
The Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation confirmed that Police were currently investigating incidents from the early hours of Wednesday morning in a nightclub area in Nadi.
In a statement, Mr Gavoka said a suspect known to Police for the alleged sexual assault had been questioned and investigations were continuing.
He said there were two separate alleged incidents, one being alleged theft and the other being alleged sexual assault which affected two different crew members.
“Our thoughts and concerns are with them and for their health and well-being,” he said.
“These alleged incidents are regrettable.”
He said the three crew members shall be returning home before the end of this week.
“The crew, who are in good health, are being accommodated at a local hotel which is the nominated crew accommodation for layovers.
“The three crew members were also advised by their Headquarters to remain within the hotel vicinity to ensure contactability and assist with Police investigations; they should return home before the end of this week.”
He urged the international media to exercise caution in their reporting and avoid sensationalising incidents without facts.
“We also refer to reports by various international media claiming that the crew are being ‘detained’ – this is incorrect and false.
“Regrettably, incidents like this can happen anywhere and Fiji is not immune.
“We, as always, remind tourists to exercise caution in nightclub areas and late at night.”
