Police turn to DNA evidence

POLICE have turned their attention to DNA evidence in their attempt to find answers to the mysterious deaths of the Kumar family in the Nausori Highlands more than two weeks ago.

“Apart from the tests conducted to determine the substances consumed by the victims, DNA tests are being conducted on a number of items found at the scene of crime,” said police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro.

“Investigators don’t want to rush the process and want to ensure that they have sufficient evidence to proceed with the laying of charges if any and they have been reminded not to be pressured by the media reports or speculation surrounding the case, but ensure all the necessary processes are followed.”

Police investigations since the discovery of the bodies of Nirmal Kumar, 63, along with his wife Usha Devi, 54, their daughter Nileshni Kajal, 34 and her two daughters Sana and Samarah aged eight and 11 in the Nausori Highlands have so far resulted in the questioning of two people.

Ms Naisoro said the man and woman remain “persons of interest” in the case.

A stop departure order remains in place for the duo and their travel documents remain in the custody of authorities.

Villagers and residents of Tubenasolo and surrounding areas, near Cerekula where the bodies were found, said they believed they saw Usha Devi, Samaira — the one-year-old sole survivor — and Sana and Samarah early on the morning of Sunday, August 25.

Villagers also claim they saw a fourwheel-drive vehicle late Sunday afternoon and two vehicles race away from a lookout located above where the bodies were discovered on Sunday evening.

Family members of the deceased immersed in the Hindu 13-day prayer ritual have said they want justice.

They also want to know what led to the deaths so that they can have closure.