The deposed People's Coalition government's office in Lautoka, was forced to
close this afternoon following threats by supporters of hostage-taker George
Speight.
A statement by the democratically elected National Planning and Housing minister
in the coalition government, Ganesh Chand, and Senator Dalpat
Rathod, alleged the "terrorists" were accompanied by some police and
soldiers.
"Three police officers and a soldier walked into the office with four
terrorists and ordered the office be closed," said Chand in an interview.
The
terrorists threatened our office manager with physical harm.
"The police didn't do anything and they also ordered the office be closed."
Chand said that office manager, Subhas Verma was assaulted.
The divisional crime officer Western, SSP Josaia Rasiga, denied allegations
that police and army personnel forcefully entered the coalition office
and ordered its closure.
REBEL leader Iliesa Duvuloco is in serious condition at the Kadavu Ward of
the Colonial War Memorial Hospital.
A military source said last night he was admitted after being arrested at Korovou,
Tailevu by soldiers deployed to the area.
Duvuloco and two other rebel leaders, Varinava Tiko and Jim Speight were arrested
yesterday.
They were part of a list of seven names wanted by the military.
Tiko and Jim Speight are being held at the military barracks in Nabua.
Others still wanted by the army include Meli Tunisau, Serupepeli Dakai, Neori
Tuivonovono and Jonasa Tonawai.
According to military spokesperson Major Howard Politini, the men are wanted
over alleged involvement in the recent spate of lawlessness in the country.
"The RFMF advises the four on the run to turn themselves in to the nearest
police station, police post, checkpoint or any military post, so police can
begin
conducting investigations," Major Politini warned.
He reassured the public of the army's continual commitment to security and
safety of all citizens.
Fiji's Daily Post
The Australian government has offered normal consular services to Jim Speight
through a letter to the military.
Jim is the younger brother of George Speight. He also took part in the May
19 overthrow of the Mahendra Chaudhry government.
The normal consular services will allow the high commission to ensure that
Jim has access to doctors and lawyers. But it will not interfere with
investigations by local authorities.
Police investigations have extended to determining who are the financial backers
of May 19 attempted coup against the Mahendra Chaudhry
government.
People seen in parliament with attempted coup leader George Speight will be
questioned, according to a police spokesman.
Assistant Police Commissioner crime, Mosese Driver, is heading investigations
with the aim of charging Speight and his aides with treason.
Driver said his team is gathering evidence to the effect.
So far, four charges have been laid against Speight, Ilisoni Ligairi, Ratu
Timoci Silatolu, Joe Nata, Joe Savua, Tevita Bukarau, Metuisela Mua and
Rusiate Korovusere.
This includes unlawful assembly, unlawful burial and two charges in relation
to unlawful use of firearms.
A date has yet to be finalised with the DPP's office for the men to appear in
court.
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