The Fiji Police Force cannot be effective in its duties if its officers are not physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy, says Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Aporosa Lutunauga.
He said restoring public trust and confidence in the force begins with the well-being of its members and their families.
“Our effectiveness in service delivery is directly impacted when our focus is divided or when we are unwell,” he said.
He urged officers to adopt healthy, purposeful living, not just to meet the demands of the job, but to ensure they could enjoy life beyond retirement.
“While we cannot prevent death from knocking on our doors, we can choose to live meaningful, healthy, and purposeful lives.
“We can choose to be present, to see our children and grandchildren grow, to live well into our retirement, and to look back.”
Addressing the families of officers who have died in the line of duty, he said, though words cannot bring back their loved ones, he hoped they found comfort in knowing their life of service was purposeful and impactful.
“You gave us the most precious gift of all, their time, and for that, we are forever grateful.”
He encouraged serving and retired officers to support one another, practice kindness, and cherish their lives and families.