Police Commissioner Denies Cover-Up in Constable's Death Investigation

Fiji Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has firmly refuted claims of a cover-up surrounding the death of the late Police Constable Peniasi Racagi. Addressing media inquiries, Tudravu assured the public that the investigation is proceeding diligently along two distinct lines: scrutinizing the circumstances of Racagi's demise and thoroughly examining allegations of police complicity.

“

There has been no cover-up in the investigation into the death of late Police Constable Peniasi Racagi.

While acknowledging the public's growing concern, particularly in light of recent court proceedings, Commissioner Tudravu stressed that all investigative protocols have been meticulously followed. He emphasized the critical step of submitting investigation files to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) prior to the formal laying of charges. This procedure, he noted, is a cornerstone of ensuring transparency, especially when the investigation involves members of the police force, whether as victims or suspects.

“

Investigators are pursuing two lines of inquiry based on information gathered during the investigation, the circumstances surrounding Racagi’s death and allegations of police involvement.

The Commissioner declined to comment further on matters currently sub judice, respecting the ongoing judicial process. However, the court's recent expression of serious concerns regarding the handling of the case, including the absence of key documents such as post-mortem findings and DNA swab test results, underscores the sensitivity and complexity of this investigation. The case continues to unfold in the courts, with the public awaiting further developments.

“

Investigation files were submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions before charges were formally laid, describing it as an important process to ensure transparency when cases involve police officers.