The Fiji Police Force is urging members of the public to allow due process to take its course and refrain from making allegations against individuals without evidence, particularly on social media.
In a statement, Police expressed concern over the increasing number of online posts incriminating individuals and members of law enforcement without proof, warning that such allegations can have far-reaching consequences for families and communities.
“The rise in social media postings incriminating individuals and members of law enforcement without any evidence is concerning, as it has wider implications on a person’s family and community,” the statement said.
Police acknowledged the public’s right to freedom of speech and expression but stressed that these rights come with responsibilities.
“While freedom of expression and speech is recognized and respected, it must be exercised with respect and based on facts and the truth,” the statement said.
The Force specifically addressed recent online attacks directed at two police officers who have been alleged on social media to be linked to the death of Police Constable Peniasi Racagi.
Police said the allegations were unfounded and noted that the matter is currently before the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for an independent legal review.
“The recent attacks on two police officers alleged to be linked to the death of Police Constable Peniasi Racagi is unwarranted, as the matter is before the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for independent legal review,” the statement said.
According to Police, the two officers were neither investigated nor connected to the matter, but have nevertheless become the subject of threatening comments online.
“The two officers were not investigated nor did they have any link to the matter, yet they are subject of cruel and threatening comments on social media attack, based purely on hearsay, rather than evidence,” the statement added.
Police reiterated that investigations involving officers are routinely subjected to an independent legal review by the ODPP before any charges are laid.
“As assured, all investigations against police go through the independent process of a legal review by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions,” the statement said.
“This process is not new, and has been in practice for years, evident when Police officers are produced in court after the formal laying of charges, upon the advice of the ODPP.”
The Force again appealed to members of the public to use social media responsibly and consider the impact of their words.
“The Fiji Police Force is again pleading with members of the public to use social media responsibly and to understand that while freedom of speech and expression are fundamental rights, they carry responsibilities and must consider the impact their comments and posts have on individuals, their families and society.”
Police also confirmed that the ODPP has advised that its review of the investigation file into the death of the late PC Peniasi Racagi is expected to take between three and four weeks.
