Claims have emerged about police officers mistreating transgender individuals and women engaged in sex work.
Director of Haus of Khameleon, Metuisela Talala, also known as June White, questioned how long police officers would continue to treat individuals earning a living through sex work poorly.
“We are still humans and deserve fair treatment from society and from officers. It doesn’t take much to be kind,” June said.
Having previously been a sex worker, June stated, “I always hear from current workers that this abuse still happens on our streets.”
June hopes that steps will be taken to address the issues faced by transgender community members involved in sex work.
“Sex workers fear arrest or further abuse if they report these crimes,” June added.
June alleges that police officers forcefully take transgender women and drop them off in the interior of Wailoku, making them walk 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,” June said.
Divisional Police Commander South, SSP Wate Vocevoce, reminded officers to maintain professionalism at all times while performing their duties. Responding to the claims, SSP Vocevoce stated that no one is above the law.
“If an offense is committed, apply the rule of law diligently, ensuring integrity, respect, and fairness. If a report is lodged against an officer, we will investigate accordingly, demonstrating our commitment to upholding professionalism in the pursuit of justice,” Vocevoce said.
Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, assured the public, including complainants, that his office is open to those afraid to report police officers.
“My office is always open, or they can go to the Ministry of Women to report,” Tikoduadua stated.
Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, emphasized that everyone should feel safe in front of a police officer, regardless of 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,” Tabuya said.
“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 the proper care of women when they present themselves at a police station, whether as victims or accused persons,” Tabuya concluded.