Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau commended the Fiji Police Force for its exceptional budget management during a recent address in Parliament. In his comments, he noted that the police force achieved an impressive budget utilization rate between 95% and 99.9% for the fiscal years 2020 to 2025, during a review by the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence regarding the police’s 2020-2021 annual report.
Ro Filipe highlighted the government’s determination to bolster the police’s human resources, announcing the approval to recruit an additional 1,000 officers at a cost of $19.5 million. This significant recruitment initiative is anticipated to enhance the force’s capabilities and broaden its overall personnel base, alongside necessary salary increases. He also posed critical questions to the House about the historical practices of personnel management and recruitment within the police.
In terms of accountability, he shared that investigations are currently ongoing regarding missing drug exhibits, demonstrating the police force’s commitment to transparency, supported by its Internal Affairs and Professional Standards divisions. Additionally, he emphasized improvements in the public complaints system, including the launch of a 24/7 helpline that enhances citizen accessibility to police services.
To align with international policing standards, the training and recruitment programs in forensic science, technology application, and human rights are being upgraded. Ro Filipe noted that 41 officers have successfully completed technical and vocational training certifications through Fulton Adventist University College.
Ongoing reform initiatives include a review of the Fiji Police Act of 1965, aimed at updating policing practices and operational tools. The exploration of drone technology for surveillance purposes has also been indicated, along with allocated funds of $150,000 for DNA quality assurance and $250,000 for forensic chemistry equipment.
Furthermore, new police posts are being established in rural regions, such as Kavala and Beqa, alongside necessary upgrades to existing stations in Nadi and Tavua, focusing on improvements in sanitation, barracks, and evidence storage. As of mid-September, Ro Filipe reported that the police force operates 396 leased vehicles, 81 police-owned vehicles, and 146 motorcycles, underscoring the strategic management of these resources to enhance operational efficacy.
These numerous reforms reflect the government’s commitment to improving public safety amid rising crime rates, presenting a promising future for law enforcement in Fiji. As modernization efforts progress, the police force aims to strengthen community relations, boost operational efficiency, and rebuild public trust, fostering a safer environment for all Fijians.