The NGO Coalition on Human Rights is strongly calling for the immediate suspension of all joint Republic of Fiji Military Forces and Fiji Police Force operations.

They say this suspension must remain strictly in place until independent, transparent, and comprehensive investigations into the tragic deaths of Jone Vakarise and Sakiasi Radravu have been fully concluded, and their findings are made open to public scrutiny.

They are deeply concerned about allegations of torture that have emerged through testimonies published in the media by individuals who were taken into state custody during these joint operations.

The Coalition calls on the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission to exercise its mandate and investigate both deaths, as well as the circumstances surrounding the detention of the other individuals.

They say access must be given to the Commission to carry out this independent oversight.

The Coalition Chair Shamima Ali says within two months, two people have died while others have alleged torture and this is absolutely unacceptable.

Ali says they do not see these as isolated procedural failures, but as symptoms of a structural erosion of the rule of law within these operations.

She says the impunity must end.

Ali says investigations must be time-bound and it has been over 50 days since Jone Vakarise died in military custody.

She questions what is the update on this investigation, and what is causing this delay.

The Coalition Chair says statements of regret from the Police Commissioner, RFMF Commander, and the Prime Minister are meaningless unless time-bound, independent, and transparent investigations are carried out and followed up with concrete accountability and good governance systems that enable systemic change as soon as possible.

NGO Coalition reminds the State that the right to life is fundamental, and that the prohibition of torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment is absolute.

They say these protections are enshrined in the Constitution and these rights are also reflected in international human rights standards.

NGOCHR further emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to established custodial safeguards, including the First Hour Procedure.

They say this includes informing detainees of the reasons for their arrest, their right to remain silent, and allowing access to their right to legal counsel, and facilitating timely communication with family members.

The Coalition say these safeguards are essential to preventing abuse and ensuring due process.