The actions of two police officers involved in the arrest of a suspect in Nadi on Friday last week will be addressed, says Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu.
The incident, which was captured on video and circulated on social media, occurred while the officers were on beat patrol in Nadi on that day.
According to a police statement, the officers approached two men who were acting in a suspicious manner, after which one fled the scene.
The remaining suspect was questioned, and several sachets of dried leaves believed to be marijuana were allegedly found in his possession.
Mr Tudravu said the suspect’s refusal to cooperate led to the confrontation seen in the footage.
”The video clearly demonstrated the difficulties faced by officers while effecting arrest when individuals refuse to cooperate,” Mr Tudravu said.
While noting that officers are trained to apply reasonable force, the commissioner said situations vary and officers must take necessary actions to restrain suspects.
He further highlighted that members of the force are aware of the legal consequences of their actions.
”Police officers are aware of the consequences if they use excessive force, as officers have been charged and produced in court when found to have abused their authority.”
