Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has expressed serious concerns regarding the growing backlog of pending cases and resource shortages within the Fiji Police Force, which are hindering thorough investigations. Acknowledging the situation, he mentioned that many serious cases, including cold cases and matters involving police officers, remain unresolved due to the stretched resources of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
Tudravu emphasized that the police force is currently looking into these manpower issues as part of a broader reform and restructuring effort. He highlighted the necessity for a more technical and scientific approach to investigations, stating that modern cases demand reliable evidence beyond just witness statements to hold up in court. To this end, the commissioner disclosed plans to recruit experienced officers to help expedite pending investigations and improve overall efficiency.
Among the investigations still underway include high-profile missing persons cases, such as that of a girl in Lami and a boy in Nadonumai, with Tudravu assuring the community that police teams are actively pursuing these leads.
Drug cultivation continues to be a pressing concern for the police. Tudravu mentioned that the force is focusing on tracking the financial dynamics surrounding illegal farming and how these proceeds impact the local economy. He expressed a firm commitment to addressing these issues, underlining the urgency of preventing the next generation from engaging in such activities.
Despite these challenges, Commissioner Tudravu remains optimistic. He reassured the public that the police are dedicated to resolving outstanding investigations and that proactive measures are being taken to boost the effectiveness of police operations. This commitment sets a hopeful tone for the future, as the force aims to enhance trust and accountability within the community while effectively addressing crimes.
Overall, while the obstacles are significant, the outlined plans signify a promising path for the Fiji Police, aiming for a more capable and trustworthy law enforcement agency in the future.
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