Divisional Police Commander SSP Kemueli Baledrokadroka has stated that there must be significant evidence to support allegations that police officers are using their personal vehicles as illegal taxis. This statement was made in response to claims from Mahend Prasad, president of the Labasa Taxi Association, who accused some officers of conducting taxi services unlawfully.
SSP Baledrokadroka emphasized that the Fiji Police Force does not monitor the use of officers’ private vehicles, saying, “This needs proof. We cannot just make allegations such as this. This is a serious claim.” He explained that officers often drive their personal cars at night for personal reasons or to assist family members. “The vehicle is theirs and they can drive any way they like,” he added.
In rebuttal, Mr. Prasad suggested that he has already provided the names of certain officers allegedly operating their private vehicles as taxis to a senior officer, highlighting the necessity of addressing this matter.