Tarakinikini case still open

Issue No: 803; 29 May 2001

 
The military has confirmed that the Tarakinikini file is not closed.

Lt. Col. Tarakinikini was suspected of being involved with the terrorists from the inside. He is also on the suspect list of people behind the 2 November failed mutiny and attempted coup.

The media reports that investigations on his involvement are still ongoing and that there are possibilities of him being recalled from his UN posting. The UN offered him a job despite questions being raised over his involvement with the terrorists. The military is quoted as saying: "He hasn't been cleared of the investigations altogether. He was cleared of allegations that he was a supporter when he was seen in the parliamentary complex with the rebels. The rebels also claimed he was supporting them, but that could be sabotage. If there is enough evidence against him and depending on the court martial, if it is necessary, he will be required to return to Fiji".

Tarakinikini was reportedly marked for the job of Police Commissioner in the original plan of the terrorists. The Police Commissioner was marked for the job of Prime Minister while Rabuka was to become the President. The terrorists' plans did not work when the Third Infantry Regiment of the Fiji Military forces, then commanded by Lt. Col. Viliame Seruvakula, refused to back them.

 

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