The Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, recently made a significant visit to Wellington, New Zealand, where he received a comprehensive briefing on the roles, ongoing programs, and challenges faced by the Fijian High Commission. He was accompanied by 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 this visit, Commissioner Tudravu was informed about various concerns expressed by the Fijian community residing in New Zealand. He assured the community of his commitment to addressing policing-related issues affecting Fijians abroad. Furthermore, the Commissioner praised the High Commission’s endeavors to strengthen the relationships between the Fiji Police Force, the New Zealand Government, and the Fijian diaspora. He emphasized the importance of improved coordination among the Fiji Police, Immigration, Trade, and other ministries to enhance service delivery.
This focus on collaboration aligns well with the broader objectives of the Fiji Police Partnership Program, which has been pivotal in enhancing policing capabilities, particularly through training initiatives in cooperation with New Zealand. This longstanding partnership, which dates back to the 1970s, focuses on developing the skills of the Fiji Police Force in critical areas such as canine operations and narcotics detection.
Recent initiatives under this partnership have demonstrated positive results, including a ceremony that celebrated the graduation of Fiji Police K9 handlers from the New Zealand Police Dog Training Centre in Trentham. Supported by both the Fiji Police Partnership Program and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, this program exemplifies the shared commitment of both nations to raise policing standards and effectively address crime.
As Commissioner Tudravu continues his efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation, his aim remains clear: to ensure that Fijian citizens living in New Zealand receive essential support while simultaneously enhancing the autonomy and effectiveness of the Fiji Police Force. These collaborative efforts not only pave the way for improved community safety but also foster a hopeful outlook for addressing regional policing challenges through shared resources and expertise.