Allegations against members of the Fiji Police Force are raising concerns about public confidence, leading to calls for immediate disciplinary measures from the Police Commissioner. However, Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), emphasized the importance of adhering to legal procedures during this process.
During a joint meeting held at the Fiji Police Headquarters, Major General Kalouniwai and Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu discussed the need for a more coordinated strategy to address the illicit drug trade in Fiji. This meeting aimed to outline the current drug situation and evaluate law enforcement efforts from 2022 to 2025, focusing on drug seizures, investigations, and arrests related to both cannabis and synthetic drugs.
The briefing provided insights into institutional safeguards that protect the integrity of the Fiji Police Force amidst these serious allegations. Commissioner Tudravu reassured the public that the drug situation is manageable and under control, countering narratives fueled by misinformation prevalent on social media.
Major General Kalouniwai echoed these sentiments, noting that the battle is no longer just against drugs but also against misleading narratives that can undermine trust in the police and the government. He acknowledged the ongoing efforts to prevent significant drug shipments from reaching communities and reinforced the commitment of the RFMF to support law enforcement agencies, despite operational challenges and limited resources.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to hold a joint planning session later this week to enhance intelligence sharing, improve collaboration, and strengthen community policing initiatives, thus reinforcing a united front against the ongoing challenges posed by illicit drugs.
This proactive approach not only aims to address the immediate issues but also seeks to restore and maintain public confidence in law enforcement in Fiji, highlighting the importance of community engagement and transparency in building trust.