Rotuma Rebels Nabbed

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SUVA: Two men believed to be part of a secessionist group that wants the northern Fiji island of Rotuma to be declared a republic have been arrested, the Daily Post reports.

The father and son duo, whose names have been withheld, were arrested by police from Suva who were on the island for the past week.

Criminal Investigations Department director Emosi Vunisa said yesterday the men could face treason charges because of the seriousness of the offence.

The men, who are of Rotuman origin, were brought to Suva yesterday afternoon.

They are believed to be detained at the Central Police Station in Suva for further questioning.

Police said the younger man is a resident of Australia, while his dad lives in Suva.

Vunisa said the arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into reports that the group, backed by American convict David Korem, wants to create a "state-within-a-state" on Rotuma, similar to that enjoyed by the Vatican in Italy.

"The allegations are very serious. I have not see the file so I can't say if they will be charged for treason," he said.

+++niuswire

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