Fiji’s Police Under Fire: Calls for Accountability and Human Rights Training

The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC) has issued a strong condemnation of the violence perpetrated by the Fiji Police Force, highlighting that such actions represent serious human rights violations and erode public trust in law enforcement.

In a recent statement, the Commission reminded the police of their duties as guardians of public safety, insisting that they uphold the law while demonstrating integrity and professionalism. Reports of excessive force used by police officers in recent incidents have raised serious concerns.

The FHRADC has received multiple complaints indicating possible breaches of human rights involving the police. Notable cases include an incident in Nausori, where a bystander was reportedly assaulted, and another instance where a man allegedly endured physical abuse while being detained for two weeks in the Northern division. There are also claims of coercion during caution interviews to extract confession statements.

In response to these alarming developments, the Commission is calling for urgent, impartial, and transparent investigations into all reports of police brutality, insisting that accountability is essential for restoring public confidence in the justice system.

Furthermore, the FHRADC emphasizes the need for the Fiji Police Force to implement comprehensive training programs focused on human rights. This training should prioritize the principles of restraint, de-escalation, and respect for human dignity in all police-public interactions.

This call for action reflects a hopeful step towards addressing and rectifying issues within the police force, emphasizing the potential for reform and improved relations with the community. There is an opportunity for the police to restore their reputation and regain public trust through accountability and proper training.

Summary: The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission condemns police violence and calls for investigations into recent incidents of brutality, urging the police to prioritize human rights training for officers.