The Counter Narcotics Bureau of the Fiji Police Force is undergoing a comprehensive review aimed at strengthening and realigning its operations. This initiative has been confirmed by the Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, who highlighted the importance of selecting officers with strong ethical standards capable of managing work pressures while resisting misconduct. An independent recruitment process will be established to ensure only the most suitable candidates join the Bureau. Naivalurua mentioned that the selection panel might include international experts and representatives from key stakeholders like Customs and Immigration.
Furthermore, the Bureau’s budget is being used effectively, and a fully operational organization is expected by the end of the fiscal year, as noted by Permanent Secretary for Policing, Beranado Daveta. Recruitment will adhere to government standards, based on open merit, with positions advertised for public application.
These efforts are part of a strategy to rebuild the Bureau’s reputation and effectiveness, amid previous incidents of misconduct within the force. The restructuring comes after incidents that showcased the need for rigorous scrutiny and a reevaluation of the Bureau’s operational integrity. Prior arrests of officers linked to drug-related offenses highlighted the urgency of these reforms. Naivalurua emphasized the government’s commitment to zero tolerance for misconduct, ensuring accountability across all ranks.
The broader strategy also includes enhancing community partnerships and fostering trust by actively involving citizens in crime prevention. Recent initiatives have shown promising results, with a reported decrease in crime, suggesting that the current reform strategies are beginning to yield positive outcomes.
This restructuring effort is aligned with the government’s commitment to restore integrity and effectiveness within the Fiji Police Force. By reinforcing ethical standards and ensuring accountability, the Bureau aims to tackle drug-related crimes effectively, restoring public confidence in law enforcement and creating a safer environment for all Fijians. The collaboration with international partners further underscores the dedication to building a robust law enforcement framework. Through these comprehensive reforms, Fiji aspires to establish a more transparent, accountable, and efficient system to combat narcotic challenges.