Police face challenges as officer-to-citizen ratio rises

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Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Livai Driu. Picture: FILE

Police Chief Operations officer Assistant Commissioner of Police Livai Driu has urged Fijians to work with them to fight crime following revelation that one police officer serves the interest, security and welfare of 194 Fijians.

He described this ratio as a great challenge. This ration figure, he added was apart from the number of tourists on holiday or business people conducting meetings here.

ACP Driu said the departure of more than 120 police officers this year for greener pastures had left a gap in terms of numbers within the force.

“An officer looking after 194 Fijians is a challenge,” he said.

“We need to step up and work together with our stakeholders and communities to address crime prevention. This is the only way.”

ACP Driu said the passing-out of another 207 police officers last week would surely boost the festive season operations because demands would be high on police service delivery.

“We are the current generation of the Fiji police and the highs and lows of policing rests solely on our shoulders.

“So, let’s work together, empower one another, continue to talk to junior officers, guide and mentor them.”

In a related development, Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua said on social media that ever since taking up office last year, he has been committed to addressing the manpower status of the police force.

Mr Tikoduadua said in the 2023 to 2024 fiscal year, the Fiji Police Force would be recruiting and training 100 new policemen.