Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has acknowledged the substantial internal issues currently confronting the Fiji Police Force as it aims to restore public trust amidst a concerning increase in drug-related incidents involving its officers. During his address at the 27th Attorney General’s Conference held in Nadi, Tudravu stressed the vital need for institutional integrity, stating that the expulsion of police officers charged with drug offenses is essential for regaining confidence in law enforcement.
From 2020 to 2025, a total of 47 police officers have faced charges related to drug offenses, according to Commissioner Tudravu. While he welcomed constructive criticism aimed at the police force, he pointed out that these incidents do not indicate widespread corruption within the ranks. He emphasized that over 5,000 dedicated officers continue to fulfill their duties with integrity and commitment.
In his speech, Tudravu reaffirmed the police force’s intention to eliminate drug-related corruption and provided insight into the realities of drug enforcement. He noted that the majority of drug arrests in Fiji pertain to marijuana. Between 2022 and October 2025, law enforcement recorded an impressive 8,076 cases of unlawful possession of marijuana, vastly outnumbering the 861 cases involving methamphetamine. This disparity, according to the Commissioner, is largely due to the commonality of domestic marijuana cultivation.
Furthermore, he advocated for a comprehensive national strategy to address the underlying factors contributing to drug use and trafficking. Commissioner Tudravu urged different stakeholders to join forces in understanding and combatting the social and economic challenges that lead individuals to engage in drug activities, whether for personal use or as a source of income. He reiterated that law enforcement would continue to regulate marijuana use until its legal status changes, highlighting the importance of a collective effort for sustainable solutions.
Commissioner Tudravu’s commitment reflects a hopeful vision to tackle not just the immediate challenges facing the police force, but also to encourage a broader societal discussion aimed at reducing drug abuse. This proactive approach seeks to enhance community safety and rebuild trust in the law enforcement agency.