Allegations have emerged about police officers mistreating transgender individuals and women involved in sex work.
Metuisela Talala, also known as June White and director of Haus of Khameleon, questioned how long police officers will continue to treat sex workers in this manner.
“I mean, we are still humans, and we deserve fair treatment from society and from officers themselves. It doesn’t take much to be kind,” June stated.
“Having been a sex worker before, I always hear narratives from current workers that this abuse still happens on our streets,” June added.
June hopes actions will be taken to address issues faced by transgender community members who engage in sex work.
“Sex workers fear arrest or further abuse if they report these crimes,” June said.
June alleges that police officers forcibly take transgender women and abandon them in the interior of Wailoku, forcing them to walk back to their destinations.
“I have experienced it, and it’s a hurtful experience for our members, especially the young ones. All we want is a safe environment to meet our needs when necessary,” June explained.
Divisional Police Commander South SSP Wate Vocevoce stated that officers are reminded to maintain professionalism at all times while performing their duties.
Responding to the allegations, SSP Vocevoce emphasized that no one is above the law.
“If an offense is committed, apply the rule of law diligently, ensuring integrity, respect, and fairness at all times. If a report is lodged against an officer, we will investigate accordingly, demonstrating our commitment to upholding professionalism in the pursuit of justice,” SSP Vocevoce said.
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua assured the public, including complainants, that his office is open to those afraid to report misconduct by police officers.
“My office is always open, or they can go to the Ministry of Women to report it,” Mr. Tikoduadua stated.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya emphasized that everyone should feel safe in front of an officer regardless of their age, gender, or sexual preference.
“We trust them to fulfill their role, and now it is the women who are complaining about police officers. Sex workers are human beings and, as women, they have rights and should not face discrimination based on their alleged profession,” Ms. Tabuya asserted.
“When we meet with them, one of their biggest complaints is the discrimination they face from the police and their lack of confidence in the Fiji Police Force.
“What we are trying to do at the Ministry of Women is to strengthen the sexual offenses unit to ensure proper care for women when they present themselves at a police station, whether as victims or accused persons,” Ms. Tabuya stated.