The parents of 10-year-old Joji Caudre are in urgent need of answers, more than two months after their son was involved in a serious hit-and-run accident near their home in Rovadravu, Navua. On September 16, shortly after Joji exited a school bus at approximately 3:45 PM, he was hit by a grey Toyota Aqua. Joji’s mother, Atonina Lebakaumata, witnessed the incident, describing how the vehicle struck her son, carried him on the hood, and drove away, leaving him injured on the road.
Witnesses at the scene reportedly provided police with the vehicle’s registration number and recognized the driver, a woman familiar to the community. Joji sustained significant facial injuries, including deep cuts to his face and nose, and trauma around his eyes. He received immediate medical care at Navua Hospital before being transferred to Colonial War Memorial Hospital for more extensive treatment.
Despite filing a police report right after the incident and sharing eyewitness accounts, Mrs. Lebakaumata has expressed her frustration at the lack of progress in the investigation. She was told by authorities that the suspect was unreachable, raising concerns that the case might not receive the attention it deserves. The last official update from law enforcement was on September 19, leading Mrs. Lebakaumata to fear that the case could be overlooked.
Ana Naisoro, the police spokesperson, confirmed the report’s submission and stated that witness statements were collected. However, she mentioned that no eyewitness could confirm the vehicle’s registration number at the scene. Investigators located a similar vehicle and questioned its owner, but her alibi, which was corroborated by her manager, suggested she was not present during the accident.
The police have assured the community that updates will be provided as per the Commissioner of Police’s directive. This incident has ignited broader concerns regarding hit-and-run cases and the need for thorough investigations in the community. Recent cases, including those involving individuals like Jonathan Lui and Jovilisi Katonibau, point to the pressing need for accountability and justice in vehicular accidents that disrupt families’ lives.
Amid these distressing circumstances, the community remains hopeful that with persistent advocacy and commitment, families affected by such incidents will ultimately find answers and healing. Law enforcement’s dedicated efforts to enhance road safety are essential in restoring public trust and ensuring justice in these challenging situations.