News

Five officers to be charged over Benedito assault

October 21, 2015 1:05 am

Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde, has decided to charge three police officers and two members of the military in relation to an alleged assault on Iowane Benedito which occurred in November 2012.

Policemen Sanita Laqenasici, Jona Davonu, and Semesi Naduka are to be charged along with soldiers Filimone Catimaibulu and Pita Matairavula.

All five are to be charged with unlawfully and indecently assaulting Iowane Benedito on 28 November 2012.

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Pryde says the four men are currently in Police custody and will be produced in the Magistrates’ Court in Suva tomorrow fifth suspect, Pita Matairavula, whose whereabouts are unknown, will be produced in court once he has been located.

The DPP also says Police are to be commended for completing a difficult investigation.

Pryde goes on to say that that this case reinforces the continuing commitment of the State to bring to justice any person who thinks that their position places them above the law.

The DPP’s office has also warned against any further public discussion or speculation in the media as this matter is now before the courts.