Man charged with rape and sexual assault after Virgin Australia crew member was allegedly attacked in Fiji on New Year’s Eve

A man has been charged with rape and sexual assault after a Virgin Australia crew member was allegedly attacked while celebrating New Year’s Eve in Fiji. 

The alleged incident involving the female crew member happened in the early hours of New Years Day near Nadi’s popular Bar One nightclub. 

The man was questioned and charged over the allaged attack on Saturday and will face Nadi Magistrates Court on Monday. 

Fijian authorities are also investigating a separate incident where a male Virgin Australia crew member was allegedly assaulted and robbed around the same time and place. 

The island nation’s deputy prime minister, Viliame Gavoka, earlier this week extended his sympathies to the alleged victims.

Mr Gavoka said that a suspect, who was ‘known to police’, had been questioned in relation to both encounters. 

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

‘These alleged incidents are regrettable.

The alleged incidents came after a late night of partying at the popular nightclub (pictured) to celebrate New Year’s Eve

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

Mr Gavoka, who is also Fiji’s tourism minister, said he was concerned the incidents could damage the island nation’s reputation as a holiday destination. 

‘Regrettably, incidents like this can happen anywhere and Fiji is not immune,’ he said.

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

The alleged assaults come just weeks after Fiji attracted negative headlines around the globe when seven tourists – including four Australians – were hospitalised after drinking pina coladas at a bar in the ritzy Warwick Resort last month.

Mr Gavoka said a toxicology report into alcohol samples from the five-star resort revealed ‘no illicit substances’ had been detected in the cocktails – and the source of the poisoning remains a mystery.

‘I can confirm that no illicit substances or methanol were found in the ingredients or liquor samples,’ he said.

‘All of the affected tourists and the locals have now been discharged from medical care, fully recovered. This is a significant relief.’