Police officers used excessive force: Commission

The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission has concluded that excessive use of force was used by Police officers during the arrest of a 32-year-old man of Wainibuka, Tailevu.

This follow the completion of its independent investigation into the death of the Tailevu man, who was allegedly thrown off a bridge by a group of Police officers dressed in civilian clothing on April 14, 2020, with the intention of providing redress to the victim.

A statement from the Commission said their finding was based on “available evidence including medical records and victim and witness statements.”

It further concluded that the arrest resulted in “cruel, inhumane, degrading or disproportionately severe treatment”.

The use of excessive force is against the Fijian Constitution.

Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission