THE Police Act and Illicit Drugs Act are undergoing a review as part of the Policing Ministry’s efforts to reform the legislative arms that allow the Fiji Police Force to effectively carry out its duties.
Policing Minister Ioane Naivalurua told Parliament this week the Police Act was enacted in 1965 and designed at a time that limited its effectiveness and the ability of members of the force to utilise new technology and expand their operational outreach.
“A review of the Fiji Police Act will enhance the delivery of effective and efficient law and other services and help rebuild trust and confidence within the Government, the Fiji Police Force and the public,” he said.
“The Illicit Drugs Act is also under review, and this will strengthen and streamline the work undertaken by the police force for the effective delivery of services.”
Mr Naivalurua said the Cabinet endorsed the establishment of the Counter Narcotics Bureau in 2024 as an independent institution that’s now under his purview.
“The bureau’s purpose is to coordinate the Government’s efforts to tackle rising drug-related issues, including, but not limited to, law enforcement, investigations, prosecutions, intelligence gathering and raising awareness in collaboration with key agencies.”
