Officers in Fiji’s Counter Narcotics Bureau will be expected to uphold the highest standards of loyalty and honesty, with the organization itself required to remain free from corruption.
This was emphasized by Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, during a discussion on The Lens@177 this week. Mr. Tikoduadua highlighted that the narcotics bureau was established under his direction, and its success or failure would be a reflection of his legacy.
Mr. Tikoduadua asserted his commitment to ensuring that robust standards are in place, emphasizing the necessity for officers to maintain the utmost professionalism. He warned that corruption could lead to the downfall of the committee.
“If my counter narcotics officers become corrupt, they cannot afford to be corrupt,” he stated.
He mentioned that a code of conduct will be implemented to ensure that officers stay professional. He stressed that the effectiveness of the narcotics bureau hinges on the integrity of its personnel.
“This organization cannot be corrupt. It should be incorruptible. Professional standards will be enforced, and officers must be the best.”
Mr. Tikoduadua also touched on the importance of adequate remuneration for narcotics officers to ensure they remain beyond reproach.
“When hiring for the narcotics bureau, we must ensure that personnel are above reproach, which means they must be well compensated.”
When questioned about potential accountability if corruption were to infiltrate the bureau, Mr. Tikoduadua acknowledged his responsibility as minister.
“I cannot be entirely without blame. This is my creation. If it fails, that’s my legacy. So, I must ensure it works. However, if an officer becomes corrupt due to their own actions, they must be held accountable. If it results from systemic neglect on my part, then the minister should be held accountable.”