Newly appointed Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, recently made his inaugural visit to the Fiji Police Force headquarters, where he received a warm welcome from Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sakeo Raikaci. During this visit, Naivalurua expressed a strong commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the police force and emphasized the importance of restoring community trust.

“It’s too early to predict outcomes, but I’m eager to collaborate further with you in order to win back the hearts of the people we serve,” Naivalurua remarked, highlighting a commitment to operational improvements and encouraging police personnel to rise above criticisms. He urged officers to demonstrate their effectiveness through tangible actions, stating, “Let’s prove them wrong by our actions where results are seen.”

With a wealth of experience as a former Commissioner of Police, Naivalurua intends to conduct comprehensive briefings with police officials in the upcoming weeks to better understand the current issues the force is facing. His appointment comes at a crucial time, following the interim oversight of former Minister Pio Tikoduadua, who dealt with unresolved investigative challenges impacting police operations.

One of the significant initiatives under Naivalurua’s leadership is the “Restore Blue” program, aimed at enhancing police accountability and operational standards with support from international partners. This initiative signals a hopeful direction for revitalizing the Fiji Police Force, improving effectiveness, and fostering public trust.

Naivalurua’s proactive approach and commitment to community engagement present a promising outlook for the future of policing in Fiji. By prioritizing strategic planning and operational improvements, there is potential for meaningful reforms that can strengthen the relationship between the police and the public, ultimately leading to a safer environment for all citizens.

In summary, Minister Naivalurua’s inaugural visit marks a renewed commitment to rejuvenating the Fiji Police Force, focusing on collaboration and demonstrable results. His leadership offers the promise of substantial improvements that address previous challenges, paving the way for a more effective and accountable police force dedicated to serving the communities of Fiji.