A SUSPENDED police officer and a hospitality trainee were told they were “very fortunate” to avoid immediate imprisonment after an unprovoked assault left a soldier unconscious and requiring intensive care.
Officer Joni Saro Tovola Ratumaikorolevu and Sepo Kelepi Toduadua were each sentenced to 28 months imprisonment by the High Court in Suva yesterday, with the sentences fully suspended for five years.
Justice Dane Tuiqereqere described the attack on 32-year-old Ratu Peni Tavite Koroitubuna Lomaca as “utterly senseless”.
The court heard that at about 1am on December 9, 2025, both men were drunk near Traps Bar in Suva when they encountered Mr Lomaca, who was also heavily intoxicated.
The two men punched Mr Lomaca in the face and head, causing him to fall to the ground, where they continued punching and kicking him until he was unconscious.
Mr Lomaca was rushed to the CWM Hospital, where he was admitted to the ICU. He has since recovered and returned to work.
In his victim impact statement, Mr Lomaca said the attack caused him significant emotional and psychological harm. He also had to travel overseas for medical treatment and experienced financial difficulties after being unable to work.
Despite this, Mr Lomaca said he forgave both men.
Justice Tuiqereqere said the men were fortunate the absence of permanent injuries had saved them from a long period of imprisonment.
