THE MYSTERY OF THE MISSING FLOWERS

In what was supposed to be a peaceful and solemn tribute for George Floyd, an African American killed by a white Police officer in the United States of America (U.S.A), is turning out to be a mystery.

Flowers which were put at the U.S. Embassy entrance by the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) were removed just after.

According to the embassy, they had no information if the embassy removed the flowers or not.

“The United States Embassy was not aware of the tribute to Mr George Floyd beforehand. We appreciate the FWCC’s gracious tribute and respect for the embassy grounds. We pray for Mr Floyd’s family and all those negatively impacted by the protests in the United States.” FWCC co-ordinator Shamima

Ali said as a tribute to George Floyd they took some flowers, but those flowers were removed by someone after they left.

“The Police followed me to my home and was asked who told us to put flowers,” she said.

She said this was not a protest, as the law allows global movement organisations to put floral tributes for the dead.

“It is sad to know that the flowers were removed and it is a total disrespect for culture.”

She said she was not getting her answers as to who had taken the flowers and she hoped it could be returned.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed the Police were at the scene to remind Ms Ali and friends of their numbers in light of the social gathering restrictions in place.

It was understood that 18 people took part in the tribute assembly.