The Fiji Police Force is urging Fijians to exercise caution when posting on social media, particularly when making accusations against individuals or officials.
Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu said while calls for swift investigations and more information were understandable, such demands could not be pursued outside the ambit of the law.
He did not specify the investigation or case he was referring to.
He said the Fiji Police Force accepted criticism but would not condone the deliberate sharing of misinformation intended to mislead or cause harm.
Tudravu stressed that freedom of speech and expression must be exercised responsibly.
He said unfairly maligning individuals without evidence was extremely unfair and warned that social media was increasingly being manipulated and weaponised against officials and individuals.
“Social media is increasingly being manipulated and weaponized against officials and individuals. As much as it pains people to hear the words, trust the process, investigators and investigations are legally bound by processes that must be adhered to in accordance with the law,” he said.
“This is the Fiji we wanted. A Fiji where the law is supreme and we are all accountable to the law. Accountability will be achieved in a court of law. Let the investigators do their work. That is all that I can ask as your Commissioner of Police.”
Tudravu also acknowledged the support of religious organisations and members of the public who continued to pray for and support the work of the Fiji Police Force.
“We all want answers. We are working around the clock to get those answers and those involved. Please allow Police to conduct the investigations,” he said.
Members of the public can report crimes, provide tips or report suspicious activities by calling 1681.
