4 Aug 2005

Fiji police release security officer linked to private militia after questioning

2:32 pm on 4 August 2005

Fiji police have released Vilikesi Raqio, the security officer who offered to set up a private militia for the Qarase government.

The police had brought him in for questioning after Mr Raqio, of the Israeli based company Global Security International, claimed that he met the prime Minister Laisenia Qarase and the home affairs minister, Josefa Vosanibola.

Mr Raqio said it was to discuss his offer to protect the government from the military if the Reconciliation and Unity Bill was passed.

But Mr Qarase has said he met Mr Raqio but says it was during a prayer session and not over security matters.

A police spokesperson said i's inquiry into Mr Raqio is continuing.