Major breakthrough in Virgin Australia crew ‘rape’ saga as Fijian authorities share update

A suspect has been questioned after Virgin Australia crew members were allegedly raped and robbed during a night out in Fiji, the island’s deputy prime minister has announced.

It comes just hours after Fijian authorities confirmed they were investigating two separate incidents that allegedly occurred outside popular Bar One nightclub following a late night party on New Year’s Eve.

Two members of the Australian airline’s flight crew – a man and a woman – were reportedly attacked during the encounters in the tourist town of Nadi, on the holiday island’s scenic west coast, in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Fijian Assistant Police Commissioner Mesake Waqa said the female crew member was sexually assaulted while her male colleague was robbed by an assailant and had to be taken to hospital and treated for facial injuries as a result of the ordeal.

The island’s Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka expressed condolences for the victims and said a suspect, who was “known to the police”, had been questioned in connection with both encounters.

“It is reported that there is alleged theft and sexual assault, with the victims being crew members of a foreign airline,” he said on Thursday.

“Our thoughts and concerns are with them and for their health and well-being.

“These alleged incidents are regrettable.

‘There were two separate alleged incidents, one was alleged theft and the other involved alleged sexual assault involving two different crew members.

‘A suspect known to the police because of the alleged assault has been questioned. The investigation continues.’

Mr Gavoka also clarified that none of the Virgin Australia crew had been arrested as a result of the investigation, although they had been asked to ensure they were contactable and could assist police with their ongoing investigations.

“We refer to reports from various international media claiming that the crew is being ‘detained’ – this is incorrect and false,” he said.

‘The crew, who are in good health, are being accommodated in a local hotel which is the nominated crew accommodation for stopovers.

‘The three crew members were also advised by their headquarters to remain in the vicinity of the hotel to ensure accessibility and assist with police investigations; they should return home before the end of this week.”

Mr Gavoka, who is also Fiji’s tourism minister, said he was concerned the incidents could damage the island’s international reputation as a holiday destination, as he urged visitors to remain vigilant when visiting the country’s entertainment venues.

“Unfortunately, incidents like this can happen anywhere and Fiji is not immune,” he said.

“We remind tourists, as always, to exercise caution in nightclub areas and late at night.”

Acting Police Commissioner Juki Chew Fong confirmed that the suspect was a local resident, but added that although they had been questioned, no arrest had yet been made.

The alleged attacks come just weeks after Fiji attracted negative headlines around the world after seven tourists – including four Australians – were hospitalized last month after drinking pina coladas at a bar at the swanky Warwick Resort.

Mr Gavoka said a toxicology report of alcohol samples from the five-star resort showed “no illegal substances” were found in the cocktails – and the source of the poisoning remains a mystery.

“I can confirm that no illegal substances or methanol were found in the ingredients or beverage samples,” he said.

“All affected tourists and locals have now been discharged from medical care and fully recovered. This is a significant relief.

‘No tourist wants to end their holiday sick and we are sorry that their holiday ends this way.’