25 Jun 2003

Political figures in Fiji face police scrutiny

4:03 pm on 25 June 2003

Some political figures in Fiji are reported to have come under close scrutiny after statements they have made about events around the May 2000 coup.

Radio FM-96 quotes assistant commissioner, Emosi Vunisa, as saying police are concerned that some of these statements may cause instability.

Mr Vunisa has confirmed police are gathering information about recent media interviews given by the former Prime Minister and leader of the two military coups in 1987, Sitiveni Rabuka.

These concern how the then President, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, was asekd to step down during the coup and other issues.

Police are also monitoring some individuals following intelligence reports that they are planning illegal activities.

Both police and army intelligence have confirmed receiving such reports and are taking them very seriously because of the large number of visitors and regional dignitaries who will be in Fiji for the South Pacific Games beginning on Saturday.