POLICE Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has confirmed that decisions on whether police officers will be suspended in relation to the ongoing investigation into the death of Kinoya resident Sakiasi Ose Radravu are solely at his discretion, stressing that action will be taken when the evidence and investigation process reaches the appropriate stage.
“It will be forwarded to the Resident Magistrate for further inquest,” he said.
“Suspending of police officers is a prerogative of the commissioner.
“It is not a law, it is by practice, so the law states that I may, as the commissioner.”
He said public calls for immediate suspension were being noted, however, decisions would be guided strictly by ongoing investigative findings.
“People are calling for suspension, I decide on that based on the investigation that are currently undertaken.”
Mr Tudravu further assured that disciplinary and administrative actions would not be ruled out as inquiries progress.
“It will come to a phase where people will need to be suspended, I will do that.”
The commissioner reiterated that due process must be followed to ensure fairness to all officers involved while maintaining the integrity of the investigation.
The comments come as police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of Radravu, who died weeks after being taken into custody in relation to an alleged burglary case.
A post-mortem examination had indicated his death was linked to a pre-existing medical condition, while the family had raised concerns over alleged injuries sustained during his arrest.
Police have maintained that the matter remains under active investigation, with the case file expected to be forwarded to the Resident Magistrate for directions on whether an inquest will proceed.
No inquest in Vakarise’s death
NO inquest will be held into the death of Jone Vakarise as police continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the case, says Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu.
“There will be no inquest on that case.
The Vakarise case investigation is still continuing,” he said.
Mr Tudravu said the investigation remained active, with officers interviewing individuals as part of ongoing inquiries.
He confirmed that he had also engaged the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander regarding the progress of persons required to be questioned.
“We are at the phases of interviewing, those that needs to be interviewed, is at this phase at this point in time.
“I have already contacted the commander in regard to the further progress of those that needs to be interviewed – investigation continues.”
He said despite public interest in the matter, police would continue the investigation without proceeding to a formal inquest at this stage.
Racagi probe awaits decision
POLICE are awaiting legal advice from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) on the investigation file of Police Constable Peniasi Racagi.
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu confirmed the file has been submitted for assessment.
“We are awaiting the opinion of the DPP on the file that was handed over to them,” Mr Tudravu said.
Constable Racagi, 24, was found dead on February 22, 2026, after he was allegedly attacked while carrying out foot patrol duties from the Lami Police Station.
His body was discovered near the beach behind the Lami Oceania Wesley Church, with a post-mortem
later confirming elements of foul play.
Two men were subsequently charged with his alleged murder.
However, the charges were later discontinued by the ODPP because of insufficient evidence. The accused persons were discharged.
The ODPP stated that charges could be reinstated if new evidence emerged.
Police have since compiled a fresh investigation file and referred it to the ODPP for legal opinion.
