Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) Chief Executive Officer Udit Singh has expressed serious concerns regarding the infiltration of criminal elements within key organizations throughout the country. During his testimony before the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Singh highlighted that integrity breaches are one of the main threats facing the agency.
Singh articulated the collaborative efforts FRCS is undertaking with law enforcement to address these integrity concerns, stating, “Chair, this is an integrity issue. We’re working very closely with the police in terms of integrity.” Currently, there is an ongoing integrity-related case involving a respected and experienced FRCS staff member that is before the courts.
“The person involved was of very high standing and a very experienced member of our staff,” Singh noted, pointing to the seriousness of the issue. He emphasized that this challenge is not confined to FRCS alone, as many organizations are experiencing similar infiltrations. Singh stressed, “We are at the mercy of gangs at the moment — a lot of our organisations have been infiltrated,” and reiterated the importance of working closely with enforcement leaders to combat this widespread issue.
To bolster internal controls and enhance organizational integrity, FRCS has implemented various measures, including staff rotations, shared case management, and more stringent confidentiality protocols. “Our message on the ground is that we’re rotating staff and ensuring that no one works alone on cases,” he explained, emphasizing that these initiatives are designed to protect both staff and the integrity of the organization by making it more difficult for any single individual to be compromised.
Singh’s remarks reflect a growing awareness of the need for stringent measures against emerging criminal threats, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between regulatory bodies and law enforcement. His proactive approach signals a commitment to protecting national interests and proclaims a hopeful vision for the future, where integrity is upheld within institutions and public trust is strengthened.
This determination echoes similar recent initiatives by FRCS, which highlighted advancements in border security and collaboration with law enforcement agencies to tackle drug trafficking and tax evasion. Singh’s leadership in these matters indicates a unified effort aimed at ensuring the safety and stability of Fiji’s economic and social landscape, fostering a secure environment for its citizens.
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