Defense Minister Inia Seruiratu

Defense Minister Inia Seruiratu has revealed the investigation into 11 alleged police brutality cases are nearing completion while others are awaiting a final decision from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The Minister confirmed this while responding to Opposition MP Mosese Bulitavu’s question on how his Ministry intends to eradicate the brutal treatment of suspects in custody.

Seruiratu says of the three cases from the Southern division, one is before the court, one still under investigation while another is awaiting a decision from the DPP.

The lone case from the East is also awaiting a decision from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution.

“For the North, we have one case and that case is before the court and in the West, we have six cases, four under investigation and two awaiting DPP’s decision.”

The Minister has applauded the step taken by Police Commissioner Brigadier General Sitiveni Qiliho to identify and penalize these culprits.

He says this sends out a strong message to the members of the Police Force.

The Minister also confirmed there are three video recording systems operational at the CID headquarter and Totogo Police station in Suva.

“We’re in the process to procure ten such gadgets. It’s going through the government’s procurement system now and once the purchasing process is finalized, we will also have these in the various stations.”

Seruiratu adds 20 officers have also been sent to the UK to familiarize themselves and get further training in these new developments in place.

He says they’re also working closely with the Legal Aid Commission to ensure the first-hour procedure for suspects in custody is followed.