28 Police officers charged under Illicit Drugs Act as Fiji Police enforce zero-tolerance policy

A total of 28 police officers have been charged with offences under the Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004.

Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew says for the offence of unlawful possession of illicit drugs, five officers were charged in 2021, twelve in 2022, and ten in 2023.

He adds one police officer was charged with the offence of unlawful use of illicit drugs in 2022.

Chew says that the Fiji Police Force maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards officers involved in drug-related activities and when official reports are lodged, investigations are conducted in accordance with internal disciplinary procedures and criminal investigation processes.

The Acting Commissioner stresses that officers are regularly reminded of this policy.

He says if an officer chooses to engage in drug-related activities, it is their personal choice and not reflective of any tolerance from the organisation.

He adds that the Fiji Police Force is not corrupt, however, he says that the actions of a few have contributed to a perception that police involvement in drug-related activities is widespread and he has assured the public that this perception is unfounded.

The Acting Commissioner acknowledged the need to work hard on changing this perception and affirmed that internal measures are actively being implemented to address the issue.

Police are urging the public to report any suspected involvement of police officers in illegal activities, assuring that thorough investigations will be carried out.