Visitors left with severe injuries after being struck by a vehicle in Rarotonga in May 2024 is still waiting for answers, with police failing to provide updates despite multiple follow-ups.

Auckland-based Chris Tagaloa, who has been trying to get information on behalf of the victims, says the lack of response is concerning given the seriousness of the incident.

“I feel this situation could have been handled more appropriately, especially considering the severity of the incident. It’s concerning that this issue appears to have been overlooked, potentially influenced by the fact that (the accused person’s) mother holds a prominent position,” Tagaloa told Cook Islands News.

Emphasising the seriousness of the matter, Tagaloa said one of the victims, Frank Taefu, has been unable to return to work since the incident occurred.

Taefu suffered multiple broken bones and has undergone several surgeries. He has been unable to work for months and faces a long recovery.

Despite repeated emails to the police seeking updates, Tagaloa says he has not received a response.

When Cook Islands News contacted police spokesperson Trevor Pitt for comment, he initially said he would pass the request to his staff. However, when followed up later, earlier this month, he said he had not been at work due to pay issues.

Senior sergeant Enoka Teaukura, who was in charge of the case, acknowledged the delay in communication, saying he had been away and that staff had been reshuffled.

In an email exchange with the victims and Tagaloa, Teaukura stated: “I’ve been away from work and since I got back on duty my staff have been reshuffled to other units and have new staff working under me that are not familiar with this case. I will briefly run through with them on this case.”

Teaukura also mentioned difficulties in obtaining witness statements and confirmed that police had received the driver’s blood alcohol results but were waiting for more information before proceeding with an interview.

In an email to Taefu, he wrote: “I have received your email with the attachment of your medical report and also have read your explanation of what happened on the night and very much appreciated your assistance.”

Teaukura added that finalising statements from the victims and witnesses would help move the investigation forward.

Taefu, in his statement, recounted the night of the incident, saying he and two others were walking home when they were hit from behind.

He suffered serious injuries, including a broken leg and shoulder, requiring multiple surgeries.

“We were only walking on the sidewalk, so I do not understand how someone can run three people over,” he stated.

Despite Teaukura’s assurance that updates would be provided, Tagaloa says there has been no further communication from police.

“We remain in contact with our witness in Australia and continue to follow up via email, but I have yet to receive a response,” Tagaloa said.