Suspected rapist not yet arrested

No suspect has yet been found in the alleged rape of a 26-year-old Japanese tourist in Nadi in May.

Police spokesman Wame Bautolu confirmed that investigations were still ongoing but that no suspect had been arrested yet.

The victim’s friend, retired teacher Janinemaree Atkinson, expressed her disappointment to police in Fiji over the delay in locating the woman’s alleged attacker.

Ms Atkinson claimed her friend, a qualified occupational therapist, was in Fiji staying at a private residence in Namaka when she was allegedly raped at 3am.

The victim had visible signs of injuries on her legs and neck, which she presented as evidence to the Namaka police station the next morning.

“We have been fighting for justice for many weeks, but we have not received any help,” Ms Atkinson said.

“The actions of the Fijian police at this time are a complete disappointment, so we will be contacting the Japanese Embassy and the Police Commissioner.

“We all had DNA and pregnancy tests done.

“This was such a severe trauma for this young Japanese girl who is training to be an occupational therapist in a hospital.

“She is an innocent tourist who had a traumatic experience in Fiji.”

The Japanese embassy confirmed receipt of a report on the incident.