Minister for Policing Iowane Naivalurua has announced that an open, merit-based recruitment process will soon begin to rebuild the Counter Narcotics Bureau, following recent controversy and confusion surrounding its operations.
Speaking in Parliament today, Mr Naivalurua said the Government is committed to ensuring the bureau is properly staffed with qualified and ethical personnel.
“An open, merit-based recruitment process will soon be launched, guided by the approved Counter Narcotics Bureau organisational structure,” he said.
“Only ethics, audit officers and staff with integrity will be engaged.”
The announcement comes after four police officers seconded to the bureau were arrested, prompting public speculation over the bureau’s future.
Mr Naivalurua clarified that the Counter Narcotics Bureau is not being abolished, and its work remains vital to national security.
He said the arrests highlighted the urgency of building a professional and transparent institution with robust oversight.
“As of 23rd September, the officers seconded to the Ministry of Home Affairs under the bureau were returned to the police force.”
This allows the bureau to be rebuilt correctly, with proper governance, staffing and oversight,” he said.
The bureau, allocated $1.9 billion in this year’s national budget, is also awaiting legislation to formalise its operations.
The draft bill is currently with the Solicitor-General’s Office, and is expected to be ready before the end of the year.
