Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has made a bold statement, focusing on what he describes as one mission.
The Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces are intent on dismantling drug networks and restoring public safety through intelligence-led joint operations around the country.
Mr Tudravu made the point as he urged the public not to fear the Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces as joint operations intensify in a nationwide crackdown on drugs and organised crime.
He stressed that the public had no reason to be alarmed, saying the operations were being carried out under strict protocols and guided by intelligence.
Now this is something he will need to keep reiterating because there will be members of the public who remain sceptical.
Addressing concerns after armed soldiers were seen moving through the Mead Road Public Rental Board flats in Nabua this week, Mr Tudravu said the intelligence-driven operations were centred on coordinated enforcement, intelligence sharing and maintaining public safety across the country.
Now that is well and good.
The explanation is important.
However, the sight of armed soldiers in public will raise concern, and that is to be expected.
We understand the dangers our security forces face amid growing concerns that organised crime syndicates are already operating in Fiji.
And we cannot ignore the death in custody of Jone Vakarisi, and allegations that others were assaulted by soldiers.
So in essence, we are dealing with emotions.
And in the face of that sits the need for controlled aggression on the part of our security forces.
It means officers must be constantly reminded to keep their emotions in check during operations. It means never allowing anger or frustration to dictate actions that may later come back to haunt them.
And that means working within the confines of the law.
That should define how our security forces respond to organised crime.
We may be swayed by emotion, and that is a natural human reaction. But this is precisely when self-discipline must prevail and officers must adhere strictly to the laws of our nation.
What is encouraging is the clear and concerted effort to fight the good fight.
The illicit drug trade is highly lucrative, and defeating it will demand resilience, discipline and integrity from everyone involved.
It is also encouraging to know that some police officers have faced disciplinary action after being found guilty of leaking information.
Mr Tudravu confirmed that internal investigations had led to action against several officers.
Any officer who betrays confidential information undermines public trust and tarnishes the image of the force. Such conduct is an embarrassment and has no place in the police service.
This is far more than an internal matter. It demands urgent attention and a firm hand. Rotten apples damage the reputation of the many honest and dedicated officers who serve with distinction.
They must be weeded out.
Fiji needs a police force and military that the people can respect and trust. The battle against drugs is one mission. But it will succeed if it is fought with professionalism, discipline and an uncompromising commitment to the rule of law.
