Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says any decision to introduce compulsory drug testing for police would be taken only on legal advice.
“I will be guided by the Solicitor-General’s and Attorney-General’s offices,” he said.
Mr Rabuka also confirmed the Narcotics Bureau remains in operation despite structural changes.
“The bureau has not been disbanded, it is now under police command,” he said.
Asked whether tackling police involvement in the drug trade was a priority for his administration, the Prime Minister replied: “Yes.”
Meanwhile, Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu said he currently had no legal authority to order compulsory testing but confirmed the issue is before the Police Act Review team.
“At present, I do not have the legal authority to direct compulsory drug testing for all members of the Fiji Police Force, under the current Police Act, however, it has been encouraging that officers have come forward on voluntary basis,” Mr Tudravu said.
“The mandatory test has been discussed and is part of our submission to the Police Act Review team.”
