Senior Superintendent of Police Iakobo Vaisewa, the West Police Commander, has issued a strong warning regarding police officers involved in criminal activities, affirming that such behavior will not be tolerated. This announcement follows an investigation into local officers in Nadi accused of accepting a bribe, with the complaint being registered last Sunday.

SSP Vaisewa made it clear that the police force maintains a zero-tolerance policy in such matters, stating, “We have standards. We are police officers. We should be upholding the law, and if they break the law, they will face the consequences.” The implicated officers, described as young constables, have been placed on leave as the investigation is underway.

He praised the public for their role in reporting such incidents, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital for accountability within the police force. “We thank members of the public who continue to inform us about those incidents,” he remarked, encouraging citizens to report any wrongdoing they witness. This commitment to uphold integrity aims to strengthen trust between the police and the community they serve.

Previously, SSP Vaisewa had stressed the importance of meeting the demands of their roles, reminding officers during a divisional parade about the necessity to handle complaints seriously and the ramifications of failing to do so. He reiterated that officers must adhere to processes and procedures thoroughly to avoid misconduct, reinforcing the message that any exploitation of their position for personal gain will lead to serious consequences.

This commitment to law enforcement integrity reflects a hopeful outlook for improving police-community relations and enhancing the accountability of law enforcement personnel. It’s a reminder of the shared responsibility between the police and the public in maintaining law and order.