Claims have emerged about police officers mistreating transgender individuals and women involved in sex work. Haus of Khameleon director Metuisela Talala, also known as June White, questioned how long police officers will continue treating sex workers in this manner.
“We are still humans and deserve fair treatment from society and from officers themselves. It doesn’t take much to be kind,” June stated. Having been a former sex worker, June mentioned that current sex workers still report experiencing abuse on the streets.
June hopes that actions will be taken to address the issues faced by transgender community members engaged in sex work. “Sex workers fear arrest or further abuse if they report these crimes,” June added. June also claimed that police officers forcefully take trans women and drop them off in remote areas, making them walk back to their destinations. “I’ve experienced it, and it’s especially hurtful for our younger members. All we want is a safe environment to meet our needs when necessary,” June said.
Divisional Police Commander South SSP Wate Vocevoce stated that officers are reminded to maintain professionalism at all times. In response to the claims, 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, upholding professionalism in the pursuit of justice.”
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua assured the public 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 it,” Mr. Tikoduadua said. Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya emphasized that everyone must feel safe in front of an officer, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation.
“We trust officers to fulfill their roles, and now women are complaining about police officers. Sex workers are human beings, and as women, they have rights and should not face discrimination based on their profession,” Ms. Tabuya asserted. “One of the biggest complaints we hear 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.”