Two in police custody as investigations unfold in tragic death of Fiji transgender doctor

Fiji police have arrested two suspects in connection with the shocking death of Dr Isireli Biumaitotoya, a beloved transgender doctor and social media influencer, who was found deceased at his home in Nadi last week.

As investigations unfold, his mother shares heartfelt memories of a nurturing son whose life was tragically cut short.

Police say Biumaitotoya, who was also known as Leighley Darling, was found unresponsive in his home in Nadi, lying in a pool of blood.

The two suspects were arrested on Monday in Nausori, about 22 kilometres from the capital Suva, during a joint taskforce involving officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters and officials in Namaka and the Eastern Division.

They are being held at the Suva CID as inquiries continue.

The 52-year-old GP was laid to rest over the weekend in a private ceremony in Ba.

Watch Angylene Chandra's interview with The Fiji Times below.

His mother, Mereani Bawa Kotoilevuka, shared fond memories of Biumaitototya with local media.

She spoke of his caring personality, how he always checked in on family, and how he was quick to help others, even from a distance.

Kotoilevuka also recalled their last Christmas together at her son's home, where he tragically lost his life.

Dr Isireli Biumaitotoya, also known as Leli Darling, was laid to rest last weekend. Photo/Facebook

Police have recovered Biumaitotoya's vehicle and are looking into social media posts he made before his death to gather more information for their investigation.

They were able to identify his car by confirming details from the early stages of their investigation.