Two investigations have been launched in French Polynesia after the suicide of a young woman enrolled in a military-run training programme.
RSMA Photo: supplied
Her death was announced by the adapted military service regiment of French Polynesia, or RSMA, which provides professional development for young people in difficulties.
Local television reported she died in Tahiti just days after returning from a mission to the Marquesas Islands where she had lodged a complaint of rape and sexual abuse by a French career soldier.
According to La Premiere, she reported the incident to the police in Hiva Oa.
One investigation is being run by locally-based police on behalf of the prosecutor of Paris who is in charge of all probes concerning French military personnel.
A second investigation into her death has been opened by the prosecutor in Tahiti.
La Premiere reported that several other complaints for similar transgressions were lodged against the same man.
RMSA, the military service regiment of French Polynesia, provides training for young people Photo: FB RMSA
Where to get help
These are services across the Pacific for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
In Tonga:
Lifeline 23000 or 25144
In Fiji:
Lifeline 667 0565
Fiji Womens' Crisis Centre 3313300 (24 hours) Mobile: 9209470
In Papua New Guinea:
Lifeline Port Moresby 326 0011
1-Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain 7150 8000
In Samoa:
Samoa Lifeline 800-5433
In the Cook Islands:
Te Kainga O Pa Taunga 20162
In American Samoa:
252-3502 or 770-1571
In New Zealand:
Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7)
Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
