A police officer is the subject of a criminal investigation for allegedly being involved in dealing drugs. Caught on a security camera footage, the police officer was seen to be buying what seemed to be drugs from two men at a market in the Central Division.
Confirming the incident, Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew said the officer has been suspended while an inquiry by Internal Affairs and the Criminal Investigation Department has been activated.
“The Acting Commissioner of Police has directed the officer take all his leave, following which he will be suspended without pay, and all uniforms, accessories to be seized,” a statement to this newspaper stated.
“Internal Affairs and CID HQ are investigating the matter.”
Mr Fong Chew reiterated the call for police officers not to stray away from their core values.
“Acting COMPOL reiterates his stand that any officer involved in corrupt practices and working against the very laws he or she is expected to uphold will undergo necessary internal disciplinary proceedings as well as criminal investigation by the CID and produced in a court of law.
“Any defiance will result in immediate disciplinary action and termination if found guilty in a court of law.
“Constant reminders are issued for the sake of their families, as they suffer the consequences of one’s failure to uphold the law that we are duty bound to protect and observe as sworn members of the Fiji Police Force.
“Officers who work against the ethics and values of policing have no place in the organisation.”
Mr Fong Chew also urged members of the public to contact the Police if they have any information of individuals involved in the illicit drug trade.
“The Acting Commissioner is urging members of the public to utilise the available avenues to pass on information about the illicit drug trade and assures that all information will be kept confidential, and any breach of confidentiality will be dealt with in accordance with internal disciplinary processes.”
The Acting Commissioner said many remain skeptical about the Fiji Police Force taking action against officers involved in illegal activities, however, monthly crime stats released by the organisation and the Office of the Director of Public of Prosecutions (ODPP) prove otherwise, in that serious steps are taken when a report is lodged.
He added corrupt practices will not be tolerated and assured members of the public that any report lodged through official channels will be investigated.
