An officer at Lautoka Correctional Centre is facing disciplinary action for using force to ensure a prisoner’s compliance, resulting in minor facial injury.
The Fiji Correction Service (FCS) confirmed that the officer failed to report the incident, violating FCS regulations.
The FCS was alerted to the incident by the prisoner’s pastor, prompting an investigation that confirmed the officer’s use of force. The injured prisoner was referred to a hospital for a medical examination to ensure his well-being.
In a statement posted on the organisation’s social media site Facebook, the FCS stated it deemed the force used necessary to maintain order, however, the officer’s failure to report the incident was against protocol hence the disciplinary measure.
“The FCS is committed to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals in our care and will ensure that such lapses in reporting do not recur,” the FCS stated. “The FCS maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of abuse or misconduct within our facilities. We take any violation of our standards and regulations with the utmost seriousness and are committed to transparency and accountability in all our operations.”
“We assure the public and all stakeholders that the safety, security, and humane treatment of all individuals in our custody remain our top priorities. The FCS is dedicated to the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates back into society, fostering a safer and more just community for all.”
Photo: Fiji Government/File
