statement

The Fiji Police Force confirms that the 18-year old seen in a video shared on social media was arrested for a case of drinking liquor in a public place on the night of Monday 30th of June 2025.

Officers were deployed to the scene after information was received of an individual drinking in a public place, where he was arrested and taken in for custody.

As seen in the video, the suspect would not cooperate with officers whereby he allegedly resisted arrest, and sustained injuries.

As a result he was taken to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital for medical treatment and was discharged by medical officials.

Totogo Police will await the suspect’s medical report before bringing him in for questioning as investigations continue.

The Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said concerns raised on the conduct of the officers will be addressed, and at the same time called on members of the public to cooperate with police when requested.

The head of the Fiji Police Force said numerous warnings have been issued on the issue of drinking in public places and if people continue to defy the warnings, then police will enforce the laws accordingly, as such actions pose a significant safety and security threat to others.

The Commissioner said the overall intent of the organization is to restore public trust and confidence through the conduct of professional service delivery.

Members of the public can lodge reports at any of the Police Station or Community Post, and if investigations find officers have abused their authority, necessary disciplinary action will be pursued.