Fiji’s Corrections Service Takes Bold Stand Against Corruption

The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) has announced the termination of two correctional officers involved in a drug-related incident during a recent police operation. The officers were discovered at a property suspected to be a drug lab, where police found various drug paraphernalia, including digital scales and bags with residues thought to be methamphetamine.

Commissioner Dr. Jalesi Nakarawa reported that the incident came to light during a police raid in Nakasi, prompted by an intelligence report. The subsequent investigation by the FCS confirmed that the officers had been renting from a known drug dealer, a former inmate of the Suva Remand Centre. Disturbingly, both officers were living together despite being married.

Dr. Nakarawa stressed that the FCS maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for any form of misconduct. He highlighted the need for correctional officers to be role models in society and assured that any actions undermining the integrity of the service, particularly those linked to criminal behavior, will result in immediate disciplinary action, which in this case resulted in their summary dismissal.

This incident underscores the FCS’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and addressing drug-related issues within its ranks. In recent months, the organization has implemented rigorous measures, including random drug testing and strict disciplinary actions against officers breaching these protocols. The FCS is determined to collaborate with law enforcement to combat drug-related crimes while ensuring that its personnel adhere to the principles of discipline and accountability.

As a result of these actions, the FCS aims to restore public trust in its operations, ensuring a safer environment for both correctional staff and inmates. This commitment to integrity and safety signals a positive outlook for the future of the corrections system in Fiji. The FCS’s proactive stance reinforces its dedication to maintaining high standards and protecting the community from the influences of drug-related offenses.