Claims have emerged about police officers mistreating transgender individuals and women involved in sex work. Metuisela Talala, also known as June White, director of Haus of Khameleon, questioned how long police officers would continue treating people trying to earn a living through sex work in this manner.
“We are still humans and deserve fair treatment from society and officers themselves. It doesn’t take much to be kind,” June stated. “As a former sex worker, I constantly hear that this abuse still occurs on our streets.”
June hopes something will be done to address issues faced by transgender community members engaged in sex work. “Sex workers fear arrest or further abuse if they report these crimes,” June added.
June claims police officers forcibly take transwomen and drop them off in the interior of Wailoku, making them walk 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 shared.
Divisional Police Commander South SSP Wate Vocevoce emphasized that officers were reminded to maintain professionalism at all times while performing their duties. In response to the allegations, SSP Vocevoce stated, “No one is above the law. If an offense is committed, apply the rule of law diligently, ensuring integrity, respect, and fairness. If a report is lodged against an officer, we will investigate accordingly, showing our commitment to upholding professionalism in the pursuit of justice.”
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua reassured the public and 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 said.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya stated that everyone should 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 women who are complaining about police officers. Sex workers are human beings and have rights. They should not face discrimination based on their alleged profession,” Ms. Tabuya said.
“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 striving to do at the Ministry of Women is to strengthen the sexual offenses unit to ensure proper care of women when they present themselves at a police station, whether as victims or accused persons.”