Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew has made it clear that the identities of individuals who report police officers allegedly involved in drug-related activities cannot remain confidential. He emphasized the necessity of having informers present in court to substantiate their claims, stating, “to prove guilt, informers cannot remain anonymous.”
Commissioner Fong Chew also reassured the public that the Fiji Police Force has established mechanisms to investigate allegations against its officers. These internal procedures are managed by the Fiji Police Force internal affairs unit, which has been operational since 2000. “We already have an internal mechanism in place where people can or may report against any police officer. It has been done in the past, and even recently, two police officers have faced disciplinary action for their conduct,” he noted.
Highlighting the significance of credible evidence, Mr. Fong Chew noted that informers must provide reliable information rather than mere speculation. He stated, “Thus, we need credible information and not hearsay.”
The Commissioner reinforced the police force’s commitment to maintaining integrity, reiterating a zero-tolerance policy towards officers engaging in illegal activities. He pointed out that two officers have recently been prosecuted, losing their salaries and uniforms as a consequence of their actions.
Acknowledging the escalating drug crisis, Commissioner Fong Chew reaffirmed the Fiji Police’s dedication to tackling this issue and expressed gratitude to the media for raising public awareness. He stated, “I’m thankful to the media for highlighting these issues. It’s a good indication of the growing awareness among the people of Fiji about how harmful drugs are.” He concluded by stressing that public vigilance and cooperation are essential in the collective fight against drug-related problems.
This enforceable stance taken by the Fiji Police reflects a positive approach towards accountability and community engagement, promoting transparency while bolstering efforts to combat the drug crisis within the nation. By fostering a culture of integrity and open communication, the Fiji Police Force aims to build trust with the community they serve.
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