Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu has directed the Internal Affairs Unit to conduct an investigation into allegations of misconduct involving police officers who responded to a report in Nabitu Village, Tailevu. The incident occurred last night when the officers were addressing a complaint regarding children allegedly throwing stones at a family meeting.
Reports indicate that the officers may have forcefully removed children from their home without valid evidence. One family member shared that the youngest brother tried to record the incident on his phone, after which the officers allegedly threatened him verbally. The allegations are concerning to Commissioner Tudravu, who emphasized that such actions undermine the police’s ongoing efforts to build public trust and confidence.
In light of these recent claims, Tudravu reiterated the importance of adherence to the core values of policing, emphasizing that officers must serve with integrity and professionalism. He noted that similar past incidents have raised questions about police accountability in Fiji, highlighting the need for transparency within law enforcement.
The Acting Director of Internal Affairs has been instructed to look into this matter, and a report will be submitted to the Commissioner’s office as soon as possible. The community remains hopeful that this investigation will not only address any wrongdoing but also lead to greater accountability and integrity within the police force.
This incident reflects ongoing concerns about police conduct in Fiji. Earlier cases, such as the alleged assault of a maritime student by police officers, have underscored the necessity for law enforcement personnel to be held accountable for their actions. As investigations continue, there is a collective expectation that by addressing these issues promptly, the police force can rebuild trust and improve their relationship with the community.
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