OFFICERS in the Judicial Department involved in the disappearance of almost 50 kilograms of cocaine from the High Court in Suva will be sent on leave, although the details have not been disclosed.
This was confirmed by Acting Attorney-General and Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, who said the directive came from Chief Justice Salesi Temo.
Mr Turaga said the move was to enable investigations into the disappearance to continue.
“I can confirm to you that the Chief Justice pursuant to his press release, I think we’ve all agreed that people who are implicated, they will be sent on leave to ensure the investigations continue,” he said.
While Mr Turaga could not confirm the identities of those sent on leave, sources close to the matter have indicated that a high profile and senior officer of the Judicial Department was among them.
Mr Turaga said there was “nothing to hide” and that discussions were also continuing with other agencies to strengthen security across the judiciary registries.
He said the Chief Justice had already issued instructions in relation to security, but he could not confirm the details.
“It’s a standard procedure.”
Mr Turaga also clarified the position on stop-departure orders, saying police could not impose such an order independently without a court order.
“Stop-departure orders can only be placed by court.”
He said FICAC, FNPF and FRCA could also place stop-departure orders, while police would require a court order.
“I can not confirm whether or not anyone has been issued a stop-departure order.”
Earlier this week, six people were identified by the Fiji Police Force as persons of interest in the ongoing investigation.
