Fiji’s Counter Narcotics Bureau is set for a major revamp following recent controversies and arrests of police officers linked to drug-related activities. Minister for Policing Iowane Naivalurua announced an open, merit-based recruitment process to rebuild the bureau with transparent and professional standards. This announcement follows the arrest of four police officers who were previously seconded to the bureau, causing public speculation about its future.
In Parliament, Naivalurua emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the bureau is staffed with qualified personnel exhibiting integrity and ethical conduct. The aim is to create a professional and transparent institution with strong oversight mechanisms. While some officers have returned to the police force, the restructuring will allow for a fresh start, adhering to a governance model that supports proper oversight and effective operations.
Despite the recent controversies, Naivalurua confirmed the bureau is not being abolished and remains crucial for national security. With an allocated budget of $1.9 billion this year, the bureau awaits new legislation to formalize its operations, with the draft bill expected to be ready by year-end. This legislative backing is seen as an essential step towards enhancing the bureau’s ability to function effectively alongside the police, ensuring rigorous standards of accountability.
These developments are part of broader reforms aimed at eradicating corruption and improving the integrity of law enforcement agencies in Fiji. Ongoing reforms include returning current members of specialized narcotics units to their previous roles to prepare for a thorough restructuring of the bureau. The government’s zero-tolerance policy on misconduct underscores a firm stance that no officer is exempt from law, emphasizing accountability as a cornerstone for rebuilding public trust.
Fiji’s renewed strategy involves collaboration with international partners to create a robust enforcement framework capable of confronting the drug-related challenges facing the nation. This comprehensive approach aims to foster a secure, transparent, and trustworthy environment for all citizens, reassuring the community that efforts to combat narcotics will be conducted with integrity and professionalism. With these measures, the government aims to instill public confidence in its ability to safeguard communities and combat the threat of drug trafficking effectively.