Fiji Presses Police to Strengthen Courtroom Security After Journalist Assault

November 24, 2025 – Fiji – 

In Suva on 24 November 2025, the Fijian Media Association (FMA) once again demanded immediate reform of courtroom security protocols following the violent assault of a reporter. Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) journalist Apenisa Waqairadovu was attacked by convicted murderer Sairusi Ceinaturaga just outside the Suva High Court after Ceinaturaga’s conviction for killing his partner’s one-year-old child.

According to reports, Ceinaturaga exited the courtroom in handcuffs with only one officer trailing a metre behind. He then chased Waqairadovu, shouted threats, and physically pushed him down a flight of stairs, leaving the journalist with injuries to his arms and hands.

The FMA emphasised that this is not an isolated case but rather part of a recurring pattern of threats and attacks on media professionals while covering court proceedings. The association noted that earlier in August, another convicted killer, Tevita Kapawale, attempted a similar attack outside a courthouse.

FMA General Secretary Stanley Simpson said the repeated failure of the Fiji Police Force to provide adequate protection for journalists is unacceptable. He called on the police to immediately implement specific measures, including secure perimeters during prisoner movement, a strong police presence around high-risk court exits, and tighter escort protocols for those charged with serious crimes.

Following the incident, Acting Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga said an investigation will be conducted and issued a directive to handcuff all offenders from behind during court departures.

Media stakeholders have warned that without meaningful change, court-side reporting will remain dangerously exposed. They stressed that journalists serve an essential role in public oversight of the justice system and must be able to operate without threat of violence or intimidation.

Reference – 

https://www.fijivillage.com/news/FMA-again-calls-for-greater-security-after-FBC-journalist-violently-attacked-outside-courtroom-by-an-accused-4x5rf8/

https://fijisun.com.fj/news/nation/totally-unacceptable–fijian-media-association-tells-police-to-do-better-after-another-courthouse-attack

FMA calls for greater security after FBC journalist violently attacked