Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, the Army Commander, announced that the tactical weapons previously seized from the Police prior to the 2006 coup will remain in the possession of the military. He emphasized the importance of safety, stating, “At the moment, I feel it’s best we keep it with the RFMF and we have the facilities to keep it safe, and that is something the public needs to be assured of.” He noted that discussions regarding the weapons have yet to occur with the Police.
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu commented that the issue of the seized weapons has been settled, highlighting a stabilization in relations between the Police and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) due to collaborative efforts to address the illicit drug trade. “The RFMF Commander has already assured the Police Force of their support and commitment in tackling the illicit drug trade,” Tudravu stated. He further elaborated that should there be any assessments indicating threats to the safety of police officers, additional support will be sought.
Tudravu affirmed, “We are not going to ask for the return of what was seized,” as he emphasized the need to move past historical grievances and focus on a united front against the illicit trade. He advocated for a “whole-of-nation approach” in addressing these challenges.
The weapons in question were originally taken under the direction of then RFMF commander Voreqe Bainimarama, leading up to the ousting of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase’s government in December 2006. At that time, it was confirmed by Police Commissioner Moses Driver that soldiers had confiscated the weapons from the Police Tactical Response Division base located in Nasinu.
This ongoing collaboration between the military and police not only demonstrates a commitment to public safety but also the joint dedication needed to effectively combat pressing issues such as drug trafficking.
Leave a comment