Fiji Police Open Murder Inquiry After Drug Suspect Dies in Military Custody

Police in Fiji have opened a murder investigation after a drug suspect, Jone Vakarisi, died in military custody; a leaked death certificate showing asphyxia and traumatic head and chest injuries contradicted the military's initial claim of a sudden medical emergency, prompting a retraction and active inquiries. Eyewitness accounts allege an abduction by armed soldiers, medical experts and family dispute natural causes, and the case highlights concerns about custodial violence amid Fiji's drug crisis and increased military involvement in domestic security.