Fiji police officers found guilty of rape

Assessors in the Vilikesa Soko trial in Fiji have found five suspended police officers and a soldier guilty of his rape and sexual assault.

The men were among eight officers on trial for the rape and sexual assault of Mr Soko and Senjeli Boila in August 2014.

Fiji Village reports three of the police officers were found not guilty by the assessors.

Lautoka High Court Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge will deliver his judgement on Friday after a month long trial.

Fijivillage reports the five police officers found guilty are Penaia Drauna, Filise Vere, Viliame Vereivalu, Jona Davonu and Senitiki Natakasavu, and the soldier is Pita Matairavula, who is a former body guard of the prime minister.

Three suspended police officers Manasa Talala, Seruvi Caqusau and Kelevi Sewatu, who were charged with two counts of rape and two counts of sexual assault have been found not guilty by the four assessors.

Manasa Talala and Viliame Vereivalu who were also charged with defeating the course of justice have been found not guilty by the assessors.