Urgent reforms are necessary within the Fiji Police Force to address significant issues such as equipment shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and weak internal controls. The Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua, highlighted these concerns during discussions prompted by findings from the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, which reviewed the Fiji Police Force’s 2020-2021 Annual Report.
Qereqeretabua pointed out that, despite the Force’s commitment to political neutrality, integrity, and accountability, recent incidents of misconduct—such as the loss of drug evidence—illustrate the critical need for improved internal oversight. She noted an increase in public complaints, particularly regarding animal cruelty, and stressed the necessity of comprehensive documentation, transparent disciplinary processes, and enhanced protections for whistle-blowers within the Force.
Highlighting the importance of bolstering internal oversight, Qereqeretabua insisted that all public complaints, especially those concerning animal cruelty that have seen a spike on social media, be meticulously recorded. She also emphasized the need for strengthening the K9 Unit, which currently operates with just 13 dogs, suggesting the deployment of additional units at vital ports and aligning their salaries with those of Customs officers.
The report also brought attention to the dire resource challenges faced by the Police Mobile Force and Diving Unit, which currently lack essential vehicles, uniforms, and rescue equipment. Qereqeretabua called for a dedicated budget for these units and upgrades in equipment to ensure compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
Modernization of drug enforcement operations is another pressing area for reform. Proposals include amending the Fiji Police Act to permit the use of drone footage as evidence, streamlining the legal procedures for drug destruction, and collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture to support alternative livelihoods. Additionally, the under-resourced area of cybercrime needs immediate attention, with calls for increased investment in digital forensics and surveillance technologies to enhance law enforcement capabilities.
Opposition MP Joseph Nand emphasized the challenges officers encounter in enforcing the law within their communities, citing the Naviti Resort case as an example of systemic delays in addressing issues. He advocates for prompt funding to upgrade the necessary infrastructure and transport allowances to alleviate out-of-pocket expenses for officers.
In response to the report, Policing Minister Ioane Naivalurua acknowledged the findings and outlined various government initiatives, including a $13.5 million budget increase aimed at hiring 1,000 new officers and establishing the Ministry of Policing. He reassured Parliament about the government’s commitment to tackling these challenges and noted improvements made since the report’s release.
Additionally, Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma addressed the importance of drone-assisted operations, increased K9 coverage, enhanced collaboration in cybercrime investigations, and mental health support in light of rising male suicide rates, representing a collective call for reform.
Qereqeretabua reiterated the importance of equipping police officers to uphold the law and maintain public trust. The ongoing emphasis on reform reflects a hopeful commitment to creating a more effective and accountable police force in Fiji, ultimately aiming to enhance public safety and foster greater community confidence in law enforcement.