Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu emphasized that drug-related offences involving police officers should not tarnish the reputation of the organization as a whole. Speaking at the 27th Attorney-General’s Conference held in Nadi, he highlighted that over 5,000 dedicated officers are committed to their vows of service, despite the challenges posed by the misconduct of a few.
Addressing the issue of restoring public trust, Tudravu revealed that between 2020 and 2025, 47 officers have faced charges for drug-related crimes. He assured the public that the police force is actively removing individuals who violate the law, reinforcing a standard of accountability within the ranks.
During his participation in a panel discussion titled “The Role of Police in Drug Enforcement, Operational Realities and Institutional Integrity in Fiji and the Pacific,” the Commissioner outlined the current drug landscape in Fiji. He pointed out that the country faces significant challenges, primarily dominated by marijuana-related cases. Statistics indicate that from 2022 to October 2025, the police recorded 8,076 cases of unlawful possession of marijuana, starkly contrasting with just 861 cases related to methamphetamine.
Focusing on both types of drugs, Commissioner Tudravu noted that the higher number of marijuana cases is attributed to local cultivation. He called for a national dialogue to address the root causes of drug use and trafficking, suggesting that many individuals turn to drugs either for personal consumption or as a means of income. This societal issue requires a collective response from all sectors.
Reiterating the police’s commitment to enforcing the law, Tudravu stated that marijuana will continue to be treated as illegal, and the police will take necessary actions against those involved in its trafficking and use. His address underscores a call for collaboration to tackle the broader societal challenges surrounding drug addiction and related offences in Fiji.