Four police officers will appear in the Suva Magistrates Court today in connection with an alleged assault that reportedly took place in August 2024.

The officers have been jointly charged with one count of acts intended to cause grievous harm, while one of them faces an additional count of theft.

It is alleged that the officers questioned a man for allegedly causing trouble at a barbecue stall on the morning of 25 August 2024, after which the alleged assault occurred.

Police also allege that one of the officers stole the victim’s personal belongings following the assault.

The charges were laid after the investigation file was returned by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions with advice to proceed with the formal charging of the officers.

All four officers have been suspended pending the outcome of the court proceedings.

The Fiji Police Force said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy on officers who abuse their legal authority.

It said allegations involving police officers are investigated by the Internal Affairs Division, while any criminal elements are handled by the Criminal Investigations Department, with files referred to the ODPP for independent legal advice to ensure transparency and oversight of the investigation process.