Minister for Defence Pio Tikoduadua and Republic of Fiji Military Forces commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai have ordered a review and tightening of security at military armouries after two alleged break-in attempts this week, but both leaders said no weapons or ammunition were missing.
The RFMF reported the first incident occurred at the 3FIR camp perimeter in Lautoka, where a fence to the armoury compound had been cut and an attempt was made to gain access to an ammunition storage room. That damage was discovered during a routine check on Sunday morning, the force said, and is believed to have taken place the previous day.
A second incident was uncovered during a routine security inspection on Thursday at an armoury along Cunningham Road in Suva. Investigators found a passcode door lock had been forcefully removed and left on a walkway, and a live 81mm mortar round was located at the scene. Despite the presence of the unexploded ordnance, authorities say there is no evidence any arms or ammunition were taken.
“I have been assured that no arms or ammunition have been removed or compromised,” Mr Tikoduadua said, confirming police had been notified and that the RFMF had launched its own internal probe. Major General Kalouniwai described the break-in attempts as unsuccessful because of “robust security systems” already in place, and said a thorough inspection and stock-take had affirmed that “no weapons, ammunition, or related equipment are missing.”
Both the RFMF and the Defence Ministry stressed the incidents are being treated with utmost seriousness. “A comprehensive review of existing security measures is being undertaken to further strengthen safeguards across all installations,” Major General Kalouniwai said, adding the force remained “fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of security and vigilance in the protection of its facilities and the people of Fiji.”
Police have opened investigations into the matters. Police spokesperson Sergeant Wame Boutolu confirmed both incidents and said inquiries are ongoing, although he did not release further operational details. There was no immediate information on suspects, motives or whether the two alleged attempts are linked.
The discovery of a live 81mm mortar round in central Suva heightened concern among officials, given the potential risk to public safety. The RFMF, however, maintained there was no public threat arising from the incidents and reiterated its confidence in current safeguards while moving to bolster them. The force has not provided a timeline for the security review or for when the police and internal investigations might conclude.
The revelations mark a rare public confirmation by top defence figures of physical breaches at military installations. Authorities say they will update the public as investigations progress and new security measures are implemented.
Leave a comment