The Fiji Police Force has been facing increasing scrutiny and criticism as a wave of arrests involving police officers has led to a decline in public trust. According to Professor Vijay Naidu of the University of the South Pacific, the recent rise in arrests of officers linked to drug-related offences is exacerbating the perception of corruption within the force, thereby deteriorating public confidence in the institution.
Rising Number of Arrests and Corruption Allegations
Between 2021 and 2023, 28 police officers were charged under the Illicit Drugs Control Act for offences including unlawful possession of illicit drugs. These arrests have come amidst growing concerns over corrupt practices within the force. Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew has publicly acknowledged the arrests, insisting that the Fiji Police Force maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and that all accused officers face disciplinary action and criminal investigation processes, as reported by FijiVillage and The Fiji Times.
Despite these assurances, the frequency of arrests suggests that corruption may be more widespread than the police leadership admits. Professor Naidu points out that such incidents, especially involving drugs, create an atmosphere of distrust and uncertainty among the public. He argues that when law enforcement officers are perceived as part of the problem rather than the solution, it undermines the entire justice system.
Erosion of Public Trust
Professor Naidu emphasises that the continuous exposure of police misconduct, particularly in drug-related cases, is damaging the reputation of the Fiji Police Force. "Confidence in the police force is relatively low, and these kinds of events actually lead to further mistrust and distrust of the police," he said in a recent interview, as reported by RNZ. This deterioration of trust is compounded by the lack of an independent body to investigate police misconduct impartially. Unlike countries such as Australia and New Zealand, Fiji lacks a dedicated commission to oversee police actions, leaving investigations into police behaviour often managed internally, which may be perceived as biased.
Structural Issues and Need for Reform
The problem, as Professor Naidu highlights, is not merely a matter of rogue officers but reflects deeper systemic issues within the law enforcement structure in Fiji. Many young officers are allegedly drawn into corrupt practices due to low wages and the temptation to make easy money from illicit activities. Without adequate salaries, proper oversight, and external accountability, the integrity of the police force is at risk.
To address these concerns, experts like Naidu suggest that Fiji should establish an independent commission to handle police misconduct. Such a body would help ensure transparency and restore some level of public confidence in the system. Furthermore, increasing the pay for police officers and reinforcing training on ethics and professionalism could be effective in deterring corruption.
The Road Ahead: Building Trust Through Accountability
For Fiji, maintaining public trust in its police force is crucial for the country's social stability and development. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to tackling corruption. Still, until there is clear evidence of comprehensive reforms and unbiased accountability, the perception of a corrupt police force is likely to persist. As more officers are arrested and charged, the challenge for the Fiji Police Force will be to demonstrate its resolve in cleansing its ranks and regaining the confidence of the citizens it is supposed to serve.
The path to rebuilding trust is long and fraught with challenges, but it is an essential journey for the integrity of law enforcement and the rule of law in Fiji.
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