The Acting Commissioner of Police, Aporosa Lutunauga, has revealed that some police officers are colluding with criminals, including members of the recently established narcotics bureau. Mr. Lutunauga addressed these troubling revelations during the recent Meet the Press and Public forum in Labasa. He confirmed that internal investigations are ongoing, with some officers already charged and sentenced as part of the initiative to clean up the police force.
To improve accountability, a strategic plan has been introduced under the Police Commissioner, which features the appointment of an independent Assistant Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Professional Standards. Lutunauga emphasized the police commitment to restoring public trust and reiterated, “We will continue to clean up our organisation.”
In a related comment, Finance Minister Prof. Biman Prasad indicated that the issue of policing corruption is complex, involving not just the police but also various entities, including customs and businesses. He noted that a call for a national inquiry into drug networks made during their time in opposition had previously been dismissed, leading to the current entangled challenges. He assured that the government is now taking a meticulous approach to combating this issue by targeting not only the police but other institutions as well.
These developments come against the backdrop of ongoing discussions regarding the integrity of the Counter Narcotics Bureau, which aims to enhance the country’s ability to tackle drug-related crimes. Previous reports have highlighted similar concerns regarding the bureau’s members and their integrity, emphasizing the need for thorough vetting and accountability within law enforcement.
Efforts to address these problems reflect a broader commitment within the government to improve the functionality and public perception of the police force. The emphasis on reform and accountability signals a hopeful prospect for restoring trust and effectively combatting crime in Fiji. By taking decisive actions, there is potential for a positive transformation within the police force, fostering a safer environment for all citizens.
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