SUVA, Fiji — Justice Nazhat Shameem handed down sentence for the three men convicted of in relation to murder of Tevita Malasebe last June.  Detectives Lole Vulaca and Rusiate Korovusere, who were both convicted of murder, were sentenced to life in prison.   Sergeant Pita Matai, the supervising Sergeant of the Vulaca and Korovusere, was convicted of being an accessory to murder and was sentenced to two years in prison.

When handing down sentence, Justice Shameem noted that Matai’s actions on behalf of his men had frustrated the evidentiary investigation into Malasebe’s death.  Because of that interference she said, “Perhaps, we will never know who inflicted the terrible injuries on Malasebe in the Crime Office (at Valelevu Police Station).”

The sentencing was welcomed by the Citizens Constitutional Forum.  Reverend Akuila Yabaki, the Chief Executive Officer of the CCF, said that he was glad that the sentences were handed down, but was disappointed that those people who were responsible for protecting the people had taken advantage of a helpless citizen, costing that citizen his life.  He also said that the National Council for Building a Better Fiji should seriously look at the role of disciplinary forces in Fiji and that measures should be taken to cure any deficiencies in the charter process.

For her part, Malasebe’s mother was less satisfied by the results of the trial.  While she said that she had forgiven the families of her son’s murders, she also said that she believed that all eight of the men should have been given life sentences.  Radio New Zealand International also reports that she seeks to appeal the acquittals of the five men who were originally charged with her son’s murder.

The Fiji Police also announced today that it will offer further training to its police officials in the future.  Police spokesperson Ema Mua said that the public’s faith in the police needs to be restored.  Speaking in response to the Malasebe murder, she said, “There’s a real need now for officers to know how to deal with that sort, because no one is guilty unless proven by the courts. So yes, we are looking at introducing further training, further courses for officers when it comes to dealing with situations like this.”

For more information, please see:

Radio New Zealand International — Fiji police to improve training after two officers murdered suspect — 24 April 2008

Radio New Zealand International– Fiji police says officers’ life sentences are fair — 24 April 2008

FijiVillage — Life Sentence Welcomed by CCF — 24 April 2008

Fiji Times — Police officers go in for life — 24 April 2008

Fiji Broadcasting Corporation Limited — Public will never know says Judge — 23 April 2008

Radio New Zealand International — Fiji police murder victim’s mother unhappy with ruling — 23 April 2008