Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has expressed his commitment to supporting his officers amid ongoing investigations into Viber messages that allege connections between seven high-ranking police officials, including the head of the Narcotics Bureau, and drug operations.
Commissioner Tudravu emphasized that he would not discipline or suspend any officers without clear, substantial evidence. He stated, “I’ll stand by my men,” and underscored that police should not be subjected to charges based on public opinion without solid proof.
Addressing the serious nature of the allegations, Tudravu remarked that while senior officers are named in these claims, their validity remains unconfirmed. “At this point in time, it’s still a Viber message,” he noted, referring to the ongoing verification process that the police are undertaking.
The circulating messages have reportedly caused distress among the police force, prompting Tudravu to urge the public to refrain from making premature judgments. “Anybody can name them – even they can name me,” he said, pointing out the potential harm that such unverified allegations can bring to the reputation of those involved.
All seven officers implicated in the messages are currently under investigation, including the director of Narcotics, as confirmed by the Commissioner. He further revealed that the police, with support from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), are working to identify the source of these messages in an effort to thoroughly resolve the situation.
This proactive stance by Commissioner Tudravu reflects his commitment to due process and the importance of maintaining the integrity of the police force while addressing serious concerns.
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