This morning, the Fiji Police Force conducted a respectful dawn service to honor the courageous officers who have died in the line of duty since February of last year. Family members of the deceased gathered to lay wreaths, joined by diplomats and officials who came to show their support and pay their respects to those who dedicated their lives to serving the nation.
“As we remember the lives of our fallen comrades, it is only right that we honor all police officers who have answered the call to serve our beloved nation for nearly 150 years since this organization was established,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew.
Selina Tudravu, the mother of a fallen officer, expressed her emotions as she laid a wreath in memory of her late daughter. “It was very emotional; I was thinking of my two grandchildren. Their mother, Mere Veikoso, passed away in early February this year, and I worry about their future. I wish their mom was still here,” Tudravu shared.
Maleli Keli Niumataiwalu also expressed gratitude for the support of the Police Force in remembering their loved ones. “Having the Police by our side during this time reminds us that we are not alone when losing a family member. This event is truly special, and placing the wreath this morning was a heartfelt moment for me,” Niumataiwalu stated.
Acting Commissioner Chew voiced concerns regarding the increasing number of deaths among officers, noting that many have been attributed to non-communicable diseases (NCD). “Officers have been called to rest mostly due to NCD, which has been common over the last four to five years. It is important to take care of oneself, and this requires a change in mindset, which is also a prevalent issue across Fiji,” he remarked.
In total, over 26 officers who have died between September of last year and the present were remembered today, a significant increase compared to 15 from the previous year, which Chew described as alarming.