The Republic of Fiji Military Forces has acknowledged that its earlier description of the death of Jone Vakarisi as a “medical emergency” does not fully reflect the medical findings now available.
In a statement issued tonight the RFMF Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai said it was correcting aspects of its initial communication following receipt of the post-mortem report.
“The earlier description of the incident as a ‘medical emergency’ does not fully reflect the medical findings now available,” he said.
He added the force recognises the seriousness of the findings and confirmed the matter is now under active investigation by Police.
“Given that the matter is now under active investigation by the Fiji Police Force, it would be inappropriate to make further comment on specific details at this stage,” he said.
The military has reaffirmed its full cooperation with investigators.
“The RFMF reaffirms its full and unreserved cooperation with the Police to ensure that all facts are established in a thorough, independent, and transparent manner.”
Kalouniwai also stressed the institution’s stance on accountability.
“The RFMF remains committed to accountability. Where wrongdoing is established, it will be addressed in accordance with the law.”
