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Minister proposes arming police

Minister Considers Arming Police in Drug Crisis Response

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Fiji’s Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua has proposed the arming of police forces in response to the escalating drug crisis in the country. His comments come in light of the increased dangers that officers face while addressing narcotics-related offenses. Previously, Tikoduadua had highlighted the need for the Narcotics Bureau to be better equipped due to the high-risk situations they often encounter.

Tikoduadua stated, “The police cannot be carrying batons when people are shooting at them with firearms,” underscoring the drastic need for a paradigm shift in how law enforcement agencies prepare themselves for the realities of modern crime. He pointed out that while Fiji’s legislation allows the police to be armed, they currently only carry weapons during emergencies.

During discussions on this matter, Tikoduadua emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between police and military roles, suggesting that a police force should be trained and equipped to handle armed threats while wearing their traditional blue uniforms. He expressed his hope that, should a decision be made to equip the police with firearms, they would receive adequate training to ensure that their use would serve the protection of the law and the community.

This initiative is part of a broader reassessment of police capabilities under the Police Reset program, aimed at adapting to evolving security threats. Tikoduadua’s remarks reflect a commitment to prioritizing the safety of police officers while navigating the complexities posed by drug-related violence in Fiji.

Overall, this proposal seeks to enhance public safety and empower law enforcement to effectively deal with emerging challenges. The consideration of arming police could be a pivotal step towards addressing the issues of crime, ensuring that officers are adequately prepared to protect themselves and the communities they serve.

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