The Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, recently visited Wellington, New Zealand, where he received an extensive briefing on the roles, ongoing programs, and challenges faced by the Fijian High Commission. Accompanying him were Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (Internal Affairs) Viliame Sovalevu, Fiji Police Partnership Program (FPPP) Team Leader Inspector Joseph Hunter, and Staff Officer Assistant Superintendent Semi Talawadua.
During the visit, Commissioner Tudravu was updated on various concerns raised by the Fijian community residing in New Zealand, assuring them of his support in resolving policing-related matters affecting Fijians abroad. He praised the High Commission’s ongoing efforts to fortify relationships between the Fiji Police Force, the New Zealand Government, and the Fijian diaspora, acknowledging the importance of enhanced coordination among Fiji Police, Immigration, Trade, and other ministries to improve service delivery.
This commitment to collaboration aligns with the broader goals set forth in the Fiji Police Partnership Program, which has seen positive developments in policing capabilities, particularly through training initiatives with New Zealand. This longstanding partnership has been in effect since the 1970s, focusing on building the Fiji Police Force’s capabilities in areas like canine operations and narcotics detection.
Current initiatives have already yielded significant outcomes, following a recent ceremony that celebrated the graduation of Fiji Police K9 handlers from the New Zealand Police Dog Training Centre in Trentham. This program, supported by both the Fiji Police Partnership Program and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, highlights the nations’ dedication to enhancing policing standards and addressing crime effectively.
As Commissioner Tudravu continues with his engagements that foster deepened bilateral cooperation, the aim remains steadfast: to ensure that Fijian citizens living in New Zealand are provided with necessary support while also uplifting the operational autonomy and effectiveness of the Fiji Police Force. Looking ahead, these collaborative efforts offer a hopeful vision for improved community safety and mutual assistance in addressing regional policing challenges.