PENIASI Racagi’s remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to rugby were recognized by those around him, especially during his time with the Devos rugby team. His discipline on and off the field caught the attention of a local police officer, who posed a pivotal question: would Racagi consider a career in law enforcement? This inquiry ultimately led him to proudly join the Fiji Police Force around four years ago.
His uncle, Ari Tema, remarked on Racagi’s fitting transition into the police force, given his inherent qualities of discipline and obedience. Raised in a devout Christian household by a father who served as a lay pastor, Racagi valued principles such as humility, respect, and faith—qualities he carried into his professional life.
Tragically, Constable Racagi’s life was cut short last weekend under shocking circumstances. After post-mortem results indicated potential foul play, Mr. Tema expressed the overwhelming pain the family is enduring, particularly his mother, Vinaina Veregu, who is now faced with burying her youngest child less than a year after losing her husband.
At just 24 years old, Racagi was the youngest of three siblings, having completed his education up to Year 13 before joining the rugby team that eventually led him to a police career. His family background was one of respect and strong values, as his father instilled a sense of duty towards elders in his children.
On the fateful night before his body was discovered behind the Lami Oceania Wesley Church, Racagi was fulfilling his duties at the Lami Police Station. The tragic news reached his family through an officer the following Sunday, an experience that shattered their world before it even hit social media.
Ms. Veregu, too distraught to speak yesterday, was taken from Naviqiri to Labasa, surrounded by relatives seeking to support her through this unimaginable loss. She reflected on her youngest son’s kind nature and the way he always prioritized others, emphasizing how he served as a role model for the youth in their village. Racagi had aspirations that were just beginning to flourish.
As the family grapples with grief, they are now pleading for justice. “We want whoever is responsible to face the full brunt of the law. We have many questions that are left unanswered. He did not deserve this,” they asserted, highlighting the hope for accountability and closure in the wake of this tragedy.