The Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde has decided to charge 8 police officers and 1 military officer in relation to the death of Vilikesa Soko.
Soko died in police custody in August 2014.
The DPP said Manasa Talala, Seruvi Caqusau, Kelevi Sewatu, Penaia Drauna, Filise Vere, Viliame Vereivalu, Jona Davonu, Pita Matairavula and Senitiki Natakasavu are to be jointly charged with the Manslaughter of Vilikesa Soko and with Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm to Senijieli Boila.
The decision has also been made to charge these same men with an alternative count of rape.
In addition, Manasa Talala and Viliame Vereivalu are also to be charged with Perverting the Course of Justice by instructing other police officers to make false statements in regard to this investigation.
The 9 men will appear in the Sigatoka Magistrates Court tomorrow.
Christopher Pryde said the Police are to be commended for conducting a professional and thorough investigation.
He said this case reinforces the commitment of the State to bring to justice any person who thinks that their position places them above the due process of the law.
