Newly appointed Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, made his inaugural visit to the Fiji Police Force headquarters, where he was warmly received by Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sakeo Raikaci. During this visit, Naivalurua emphasized his commitment to strengthening the relationship between the police and the community they serve.

“I’m eager to collaborate further with you in order to win back the hearts of the people we serve,” he stated. Highlighting the need for operational improvements, he remarked, “It’s too early to assess everything, but we must prove our critics wrong with tangible actions.”

As a former Commissioner of Police, Naivalurua comes into this role with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved. He plans to hold detailed briefings with police officials in the coming week to assess the current issues faced by the force. This transition occurs at a crucial point following the interim oversight by former Minister Pio Tikoduadua, who faced challenges related to various unresolved investigations.

A key initiative that Naivalurua will oversee is the “Restore Blue” program, designed to enhance police accountability and operational standards with the support of international partners. This program reflects a hopeful turning point for the Fiji Police Force as it seeks to foster improved effectiveness and public trust.

In summary, Minister Naivalurua’s proactive approach and focus on collaboration offer a positive outlook for the future of the Fiji Police Force. His commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness and community trust signals a new beginning in law enforcement, with the potential for meaningful reforms and improved public safety across Fiji.