The Fiji Corrections Service wish to confirm that the investigations into the alleged assault at the Lautoka Remand Centre circulating in the social media had been completed.

In the process of investigation, two senior officers, one junior officer who held senior appointments in the Western Division were suspended to allow an unimpeded investigation. 

Three subordinate officers were also suspended for their actions linking to the incident as revealed during the investigations.

The key suspect COC Asaeli Sorovaki had been charged by the Police and appeared in court this morning on assault charges. The officer had been bailed to appear again next month but remained suspended from the FCS.

The victim (prisoner) concerned is an Australian citizen has been medically examined and remained stable in custody.

Meanwhile, the six officers who remain suspended allegedly for breaches relating to the standard  operating procedures and instructions in the course of their duties and which are linked to the reported incident will await internal disciplinary proceedings to be heard by the designated Tribunal.

The FCS maintains that assault or torture by an officer against a prisoner is a zero tolerance policy.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA