Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka expressed intense embarrassment and anger following the arrest of officers from Fiji’s Counter Narcotics Bureau on charges of unlawful possession of illicit drugs. The bureau, formed in July 2024, aimed to combat drug trafficking and included officers from the Fiji Police Force. However, recent incidents involving bureau officers have raised significant concerns about integrity within the agency.
This year, there have been two arrests involving four officers linked to methamphetamine-related offenses, including possession of liquid methamphetamine. Earlier in May, two officers were charged with the unlawful importation of over four kilograms of methamphetamine, seized at Nadi International Airport. In response, Policing Minister Ioane Naivalurua announced that current bureau officers would be returned to their original positions within the Police Force to revamp the agency’s structure and enhance its integrity.
The Fijian Police Department has faced scrutiny due to these incidents, highlighting potential systemic issues within law enforcement. Minister Naivalurua emphasized the zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct, pledging that any officer breaching trust will face legal consequences. A new specialized unit is expected to become operational by the end of the fiscal year, with a rigorous selection process to ensure only the most qualified and ethical candidates are involved.
Despite these challenges, Minister Naivalurua reassured the public of the majority of officers’ commitment to upholding justice and integrity. He commended the collaborative efforts of the Fiji Police Force, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, and the Australian Federal Police in tackling these issues. The investigations into the arrested officers are continuing, with hopes of restoring public trust and strengthening the nation’s fight against drug trafficking.
In light of these developments, the Fijian government’s actions reflect a strong commitment to addressing drug-related crimes and maintaining ethical standards within the police force. By implementing comprehensive reforms and accountability measures, Fiji aims to foster a safer and more trustworthy law enforcement environment for its citizens. These efforts not only strive to tackle immediate issues within the police force but also aim to build a resilient system resistant to future challenges.
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