New drug test policy to be introduced soon for police officers

A new drug test policy will be soon introduced in the Fiji Police Force to take the lead role in changing public perception towards the involvement of officers in drug-related activities.

The Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, says they are in the process of finalising a mandatory drug policy, which is done in consultation with the Solicitor General’s Office in accordance with the laws.

Chew says they recognise that the lack of trust in policing stems from a number of issues, one of which is the involvement of police officers in drug-related activities.

He says while they await the final policy, members of the inner core, including the Acting Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioners of Police, will undergo drug testing so as to clear the senior hierarchy, as well as members of the Command group consisting of Directors and senior officers.

The Acting Commissioner says the new policy will also adopt best practices applied by international law enforcement agencies.

He further says they want a clean and drug-free institution, free from officers who use drugs or any corrupt practices linked to drugs.

ACP Chew says the mandatory drug testing policy is one of the many to ensure a drug-free organisation, as there was no room for any gross misconduct of duties or breach of professional standards when it comes to the policing of drugs.

He adds the new policy will also adopt best practices applied by international law enforcement agencies.