Civilians wounded, military camp seized in Fiji

5:00 PM

A Fiji radio station is reporting casualties in a gunbattle between soldiers and supporters of coup leader George Speight in Suva late this afternoon.

Also today, a rebel group led by former Information Minister Ratu Josefa Dimuri and two army officers ousted the commanding officer of the Vaturekuka Military Camp in Labasa, saying they support George Speight.

Sources say the soldiers at the military camp, on Fiji's 2nd-largest island, Vanua Levu, are divided in their loyalties. It is understood half of them are for Speight's group and the rest have pledged allegiance to the military commander, Commodore Frank Bainimarama.

Military spokesman Lt Colonel Filipo Tarakinikini says the military is investigating the incident.

In Suva, Malakai Veisamasama, a reporter with FM96, says five civilians have been injured near the parliamentary complex.

Another FM96 reporter at CWM hospital, Kavai Damu, says two civilians were rushed to the hospital at around 4 pm. Half an hour later, another civilian, possibly as young as 12 years old, was rushed in. According to nurses at the hospital, one person was seriously injured.

Earlier reports indicated that some of Speight's supporters were hit in the arms and legs during "non-stop" gunfire that lasted 15 minutes, but that no soldiers were injured.

The battle took place in Vuiya road, adjacent to Parliament. Most residents evacuated their homes several days ago, as directed by the military. However, others told the radio station they are locked inside their homes.

Three ambulances were sent to the Parliamentary complex.

About 300 supporters of Speight ran out of the Parliamentary complex at around 3.30 this afternoon, reportedly after seeing soldiers in the area. Gunshots were reported soon afterward. The Speight supporters have now returned to Parliament and are being briefed by an elder.

George Speight's group is negotiating with the military for a ceasefire.

Ratu Timoci Silatolu told FM96 that they called Colonel Jeremia Waqanisau and asked for a ceasefire.

It is not known whether any of the 27 hostages held by Speight's rebels were injured in today's incident.

Earlier today, the military swore in a new government, led by Laisenia Qarase.

- FIJI VILLAGE NEWS, HERALD ONLINE STAFF

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