Fiji Police Launch Murder Investigation into Death of Jone Vakarisi in Military Custody
Fiji police have confirmed a murder investigation is underway following the death of Jone Vakarisi, a suspected drug lord, while in the custody of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). The investigation comes after conflicting accounts emerged regarding the circumstances of his death, with initial military explanations contradicted by autopsy findings.
Conflicting Accounts Prompt Criminal Probe
The RFMF initially stated that Vakarisi’s death resulted from “a sudden and severe emergency” during questioning at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, attributing it to a pre-existing medical condition. However, a leaked death certificate later verified by Fiji Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu revealed the causes of death as asphyxia, aspiration of gastric contents, severe traumatic head injuries, and blunt force trauma to both the head and chest.
In response to these findings, the RFMF withdrew its initial explanation. RFMF Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai acknowledged that post-mortem findings did not support the original account of a medical emergency, stating the incident was “wrongly described.”
Investigation Details and Ongoing Probe
The Fiji Police Force confirmed that investigators from the Criminal Investigations Department are leading the murder probe, working closely with RFMF officials to gather statements and evidence. Police acknowledged the cooperation of RFMF Commander Kalouniwai in facilitating the investigation.
Authorities have indicated that further updates on the investigation’s progress will be provided as the probe continues. Three associates of Vakarisi were released after questioning, while one RFMF personnel remains in custody to assist with internal disciplinary investigations related to the presence of unauthorized weapons found outside the RFMF’s official inventory.
Background and Context
Vakarisi, described as one of Fiji’s main drug lords, had been taken into custody by the RFMF earlier in the week. Reports indicated that he and his associates were transported from their homes to the military barracks without formal explanation. The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly as it occurred while senior military and police officials were attending the funeral of former President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau on Bau Island.
The investigation has similarly examined allegations of unauthorized access to military facilities, including reports that Vakarisi entered the RFMF Headquarters at Queen Elizabeth Barracks with two twin cabs, which raised concerns about security protocols at the installation.
Official Statements and Responses
Fiji Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu confirmed the verification of the leaked death certificate as an official police document. Vakarisi’s family has publicly disputed the military’s initial account, with his partner, Queenie Osbourne, stating that he was “not a sickly person at all” and that the family was not informed of his death until they found him in the morgue.
The family has called for justice and transparency throughout the investigative process. Authorities continue to emphasize the ongoing nature of the probe, with both police and military officials committed to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding Vakarisi’s death.
As the investigation progresses, the Fiji Police Force maintains its focus on gathering comprehensive evidence to determine accountability in this high-profile case involving a suspected criminal figure and military custody procedures.