Newly appointed Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, made his first visit to the Fiji Police Force headquarters, receiving a warm welcome from Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sakeo Raikaci. During his visit, Naivalurua expressed his commitment to addressing the challenges within the police force and improving its operational effectiveness.

“It’s too early to predict outcomes, but I’m eager to collaborate with you to regain the trust of the communities we serve,” Naivalurua stated. He emphasized the importance of tangible results and urged the police personnel to rise above criticism by demonstrating effectiveness through their actions.

As a former Commissioner of Police, Naivalurua is familiar with the complexities of the role ahead of him. He plans to conduct comprehensive briefings with police officials next week, allowing him to gain insights into the ongoing issues that the force is facing. This follows the interim oversight of the ministry by former Minister Pio Tikoduadua, who faced challenges related to several unresolved investigations.

A significant initiative currently in place to enhance operational standards is the “Restore Blue” program, which aims to improve police accountability with the engagement of international partners. This program signifies a hopeful direction for revitalizing the Fiji Police Force amid ongoing transformations in leadership.

Naivalurua’s proactive engagement and readiness to address systemic challenges highlight the potential for progress within the police force. With strategic planning, community collaboration, and clear goals, there is an opportunity to restore faith in law enforcement and strengthen community trust across Fiji.

In summary, Naivalurua’s first visit signifies a fresh commitment to improving policing in Fiji. His approach, focusing on collaborative efforts and operational improvement, offers a positive outlook for the future of the Fiji Police Force, potentially paving the way for meaningful reforms and enhanced public safety.