Allegations have emerged regarding the mistreatment of transgender individuals and women involved in sex work by police officers.
Haus of Khameleon director, Metuisela Talala, also known as June White, questioned how long police officers would continue to mistreat those trying to earn a living through sex work.
“We are still humans and deserve fair treatment from society and officers themselves. It doesn’t take much to be kind,” June commented.
Previously a sex worker, June mentioned hearing numerous accounts from current workers about ongoing abuse on the streets.
June expressed hope for action on the issues faced by transgender community members involved in sex work. “Sex workers fear arrest or further abuse if they report these crimes,” June stated.
June alleged that police officers forcibly take transwomen and leave them in isolated areas such as the interior of Wailoku, making them walk back to their destinations. “I have experienced it, and it’s a hurtful experience for our members, especially the young ones. All we want is a safe environment to meet our demands when the need arises,” June added.
Police Divisional Commander South, SSP Wate Vocevoce, emphasized the importance of officers maintaining professionalism at all times. In response to the allegations, SSP Vocevoce asserted that no one is above the law.
“If an offence is committed, apply the rule of law diligently, ensuring integrity, respect, and fairness at all times. If a report is lodged against an officer, we will investigate accordingly, demonstrating our commitment to upholding professionalism in the pursuit of justice,” SSP Vocevoce said.
Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, assured the public, including complainants, that his office is open to those afraid to report police officers. “My office is always open, or they can go to the Ministry of Women to report it,” Mr. Tikoduadua stated.
Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, highlighted that everyone must feel safe in front of an officer regardless of age, gender, or sexual preference.
“We trust them to fulfill their role, and now it is the women who are complaining about police officers. Sex workers are human beings, and as women, they have rights and should not face discrimination based on their alleged profession,” Ms. Tabuya remarked.
“When we meet with them, one of their biggest complaints is the discrimination they face from the Police and their lack of confidence in the Fiji Police Force. What we are trying to do at the Ministry of Women is to strengthen the sexual offences unit to ensure the proper care of women when they present themselves at a police station, whether as victims or accused persons,” she added.
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