Concerns raised regarding police brutality by the NGO Coalition on Human Rights are grave and deeply distressing - Tikoduadua

Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, Pio Tikoduadua says the concerns raised regarding police brutality by the NGO Coalition on Human Rights are grave and deeply distressing.

Tikoduadua says any act of violence or brutality by the police against the very citizens they are sworn to protect undermines not only public trust but the very foundation of our democratic values.

While responding to questions from fijivillage News, Tikoduadua says he shares the sentiments that these allegations, if true, are not only unacceptable but also a gross violation of our commitment to human rights.

He also acknowledges and thanks the NGO Coalition on Human Rights for its continued vigilance and commitment to ensuring human rights are upheld in Fiji.

Tikoduadua says their voice serves as a crucial check and balance in our democracy. He assures the NGO Coalition and the public that these recent incidents, including the case of Apenisa Buliyawa and the concerning video that surfaced online, are under rigorous scrutiny.

The Home Affairs Minister confirms an impartial, thorough, and transparent investigation will be carried out.

He says no stone will be left unturned, and those found guilty of misconduct will be held accountable.

The Minister says Fiji's commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment is unwavering, and any act that contradicts our treaty obligations is a grave concern to this administration.

Tikoduadua says he understands the concerns raised about the training of our police force.

He says he will work closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that our law enforcement personnel receive comprehensive training, emphasizing the importance of human rights, professionalism, and ethics.

Tikoduadua also recognizes the importance of public trust in our institutions.

He says to rebuild this trust, we must be accountable, transparent, and committed to the ideals of justice and human rights.

The Minister says they will take all necessary steps to ensure that our law enforcement agencies act in accordance with these principles.