More than 200 new Fiji Police recruits were urged to respect and maintain the integrity of the policing profession; and to always remember that their uniform did not represent the authority to abuse or employ corrupt practices.
Fiji’s Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew made the comments while officially opening the Batch 66 Basic Recruits Course training at the Fiji Police Academy in Nasova yesterday.
He put to the floor that the gates were still opened for those who wanted to change their minds and leave.
He said policing was a profession and career that required unwavering commitment and dedication.
“You marched in last Sunday so you’ve been here for a week now. The gates are still open if you want to leave, because here, we need officers that will remain fully committed to the policing profession,” Mr Fong Chew said.
“Our uniform does not represent the authority to abuse, corrupt or to use for personal gain.
“This uniform does not belong solely to your family, relatives, friends or acquaintances. This uniform belongs to everyone, as you are here to serve everyone equally without prejudice or favour.”
Mr Fong Chew also urged them to remain humble and keep the core values of policing close to their heart.
He also urged them to understand that they were accountable for all their actions.
The 220 recruits include candidates from the open recruitment drive, absorbed police constables and 10 officers from the Tuvalu police service.
The BRC training for Batch 66 is expected to end in mid-December.
