The Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua, has urged police officers to uphold the highest levels of professionalism following a concerning incident where a police officer was caught allegedly dealing drugs at Labasa Market, an event that was captured on CCTV footage.
In his remarks, Minister Tikoduadua highlighted the critical importance of integrity within the police force, stating that Fiji requires police officers dedicated to upholding the law. “There is one way to be professional, and that is to follow the law, enforce the law, and report any wrongdoing,” he reiterated, emphasizing that officers must recognize they are not above the law.
The Minister stressed the accountability of police officers to the public, noting that incidents like this can significantly undermine community trust in law enforcement. “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,” he stated, reminding officers that citizens do not expect them to engage in illegal activities, especially concerning drugs.
Furthermore, he called for the public’s respect for the legal process, indicating that while the investigation of the officer is ongoing, it is essential for everyone to allow justice to run its course.
The hope remains that this incident will lead to a renewed commitment among police officers to prioritize integrity and trust-building within the community, ultimately resulting in a strengthened relationship between law enforcement and the public.
In summary, Minister Tikoduadua’s call for professionalism within the police force stresses the essential role of integrity in building public trust, especially in light of recent misconduct.
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