THE revelation that the Counter Narcotics Bureau and its officers are under investigation must concern us all.
In fact the probe into its affairs reflects very poorly on its officers and the bureau.
This sad state of affairs is also expected to cast a rather negative view on the roles and functions of the bureau.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu confirmed the investigation in the wake of a meeting with Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua and permanent secretary Berenado Daveta in Suva on Thursday.
The operations of the Bureau, he said, was also being reviewed.
This comes in the wake of two members of the Bureau being charged in relation to the discovery of more than 4.8 kilograms of methamphetamine at the Nadi International Airport earlier this month.
The ministry, he said, would also be putting together a new structure for the Bureau and readvertising each post under the unit.
“The way things are right now our new PS will quickly set up a structure for them and we have agreed that we will need to advertise their positions once they are established and people will need to apply and they will be vetted properly.
“That means that all those that are on secondment with the Narcotics Bureau will need to come back to the Fiji Police Force and they have to apply together with other police officers.”
This probe raises uncomfortable but necessary questions.
We all have every right to expect the highest standards of integrity and professionalism from those tasked with protecting our communities from the scourge of drugs.
We expect these officers to uphold the law without fear or favour.
We expect them to place value on accountability, vigilance, and commitment to public service.
Any deviation from this not only undermines the work of the bureau but emboldens those engaged in the illegal drug trade.
Let’s face it, the formation of the Counter Narcotics Bureau was a significant milestone in the fight against narcotics.
It was established in the face of rising concern over drug trafficking and abuse in Fiji.
It is supposed to be a beacon of resilience and integrity, with an important role in dismantling drug networks and protecting vulnerable communities.
This scandal, therefore, may also impact public trust.
It threatens to derail progress in a fight that requires unity, professionalism, and unwavering ethical standards.
Now more than ever, the Bureau needs strong, assertive leadership and officers who are prepared to make personal sacrifices in defence of the law.
The task ahead is daunting, but it is vital.
There is still time to correct course. But that will only happen if we acknowledge failures, reform the systems that enabled them, and recommit to the values that should define public service. Fiji needs a Counter Narcotics Bureau it can trust. We need one that is as tough on crime as it is devoted to justice.
We must accept that restoring credibility will not happen overnight, but it must begin with transparency, accountability and a renewed commitment to excellence.
Fijians deserve nothing less!
