The Fiji Police Force has officially welcomed the third cohort of New Zealand Police officers as part of the Fiji Police Partnership Program (FPPP). This initiative, conducted under the Duavata Partnership Agreement between Fiji and New Zealand, aims to bolster law enforcement capabilities in Fiji.

Leading the new team is Senior Advisor Joseph Tanga Hunter, who succeeds Mark Pakes, former Team Leader who returned to New Zealand in December of last year. The team includes other Senior Advisors: Drew Cameron Bennett, Mary Jane Riddle, and Steven Willian Velu Smith.

Upon their arrival, the team met with Fiji’s Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, who expressed gratitude for New Zealand’s ongoing support in various training aspects aimed at improving policing capabilities and addressing crime. Commissioner Chew noted the success the Fiji Police have seen particularly with their K-9 capabilities, which have been instrumental in narcotics detection and the apprehension of criminals.

The Duavata Partnership Agreement includes commitments from the New Zealand Government to promote cooperation in several areas, including defence, policing, border security, and cyber security. The FPPP is dedicated to enhancing the Fiji Police Force’s capabilities in four critical areas: investigative interviewing, K-9 unit development, asset recovery support, and leadership and governance training.

This program is further supported by the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji, reflecting a strong commitment to not only improving law enforcement in Fiji but also fostering a collaborative spirit that will enhance community safety. Following this initiative, Fiji is poised to reduce its reliance on external resources, allowing them to develop in-country capabilities effectively.

In an era where public safety and international cooperation are paramount, the partnership between Fiji and New Zealand provides a hopeful outlook for addressing crime and reinforcing law enforcement strategies tailored to local needs.

Summary: The Fiji Police Force welcomes a new team of New Zealand officers under the Fiji Police Partnership Program, focusing on enhancing local law enforcement capabilities through training and cooperation, with an emphasis on areas such as narcotics detection and community safety.