Police Investigating False Information Claim

The Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, has directed further investigations into a possible case of giving false information following allegations of police brutality in Nausori.

A complaint was lodged on 5 February 2026 alleging that officers from the Nausori Police Station had assaulted a man while responding to a report of drinking in a public place. The complainant also claimed that his mobile phone had been damaged during the incident.

Following the complaint, Commissioner Tudravu instructed the Police Internal Affairs Headquarters Division to conduct an investigation into the allegations made against the officers.

According to findings from the Internal Affairs investigation, the allegations of assault were found to be inconsistent with the evidence and statements gathered during the inquiry.

Investigators obtained statements from four civilians who were present at the scene. All four witnesses stated that the complainant was not assaulted and that he appeared to be intoxicated at the time.

The civilian accounts directly contradicted the complainant’s claims of assault.

Two members of the complainant’s family who were also present told investigators they did not witness any assault.

CCTV footage obtained from the location where the alleged assault was said to have occurred also did not support the claims made.

In addition, a medical examination report indicated minor injuries; however, the injuries were found to be inconsistent with any form of assault.

Police confirmed that following the incident, the complainant was charged with drinking in a public place and resisting arrest. Authorities say he could now also face an additional charge of giving false information.

Commissioner Tudravu has since directed the Internal Affairs Unit to continue investigations into the alleged giving of false information based on the findings of the initial inquiry.

He reminded members of the public that while freedom of expression is a right, it must be exercised responsibly.

“Social media is becoming increasingly toxic. Some think they can say whatever they want without any consequence. We will step in if a line has been crossed,” Commissioner Tudravu said.

He added that misinformation and disinformation circulating online can cause real harm.

“There is a lot of misinformation and disinformation in circulation, and we need to put a stop to it, as digital violence also harms, impacting real lives and families.”