The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has urged police officers in Fiji to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in response to a recent incident of alleged drug dealing by an officer at Labasa Market, which was captured on CCTV footage.
Minister Tikoduadua emphasized the necessity of integrity within the police force, stating, “Fiji needs police officers who are committed to upholding the law.” He reinforced that professionalism stems from adherence to the law, stressing that police officers are not above it. “The law is the law,” he reiterated, reminding officers of their accountability to the public.
He further acknowledged that incidents like this can significantly erode public trust in law enforcement, remarking, “Such actions do not help in re-building public trust in the police force. Trust is earned, and it is crucial for the integrity of our institutions.” Tikoduadua highlighted the expectation of the public regarding police behavior, especially concerning illegal activities such as drug involvement.
The Minister called for a thorough investigation while encouraging the community to respect the legal process, stating, “While the officer is under investigation, it’s vital that we all respect the legal process so that justice prevails.”
In summary, the Minister’s call for professionalism and integrity illustrates the commitment to restoring public trust in the police force amidst challenging circumstances. By reinforcing accountability and the necessity of lawful behavior from officers, there is hope for positive change within the Fiji police system. This incident serves as a reminder of the continuous need for vigilance and dedication to ethical practices in law enforcement.
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