In a poignant address to police officers nationwide, Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga urged a more focused attention on personal health, citing a worrisome trend of delayed medical interventions among officers. Speaking at a remembrance day event in Labasa dedicated to fallen officers, DCP Lutunauga highlighted the tragic preventability of some losses if only medical care had been sought earlier.
The constant loss of valued colleagues, he pointed out, forces a difficult reassessment of priorities and a reflection on possible preventive measures. DCP Lutunauga underscored the perilous tendency among officers to prioritize duty over personal health, a devotion he argues needs to be reevaluated for the sake of their own lives, as well as their families and communities.
This solemn call to prioritize health was mirrored by Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, who had previously raised concerns about the increasing number of officer deaths, primarily linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Over the past year, the Fiji Police Force has seen a marked rise in such fatalities, highlighting an alarming and growing trend. Commissioner Chew has consistently advocated for a cultural shift within the force to prioritize health and well-being.
These calls to action are part of a broader national struggle with health issues in Fiji, emphasizing the urgent need for measures to prevent illness within the ranks. Lutunauga and Chew agree that such changes are indispensable not only for officers’ own well-being but also for the benefit of their families and society as a whole.
Reflecting on the somber statistics of over 26 officer deaths in the past year compared to 15 the year before, the urgency of adopting healthier practices becomes apparent. By commemorating fallen officers and pushing for enhanced health awareness, the Fiji Police Force is making strides towards fostering a healthier and more robust workforce, safeguarding those who dedicate their lives to the protection of others.