The Fiji Police Force needs stronger internal systems to ensure officers attend court when required to give evidence.
Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu said this following the dismissal of the case of drug accused, Imran Khan, after two police officers failed to appear as prosecution witnesses last week.
Speaking to this newspaper, Mr Seruiratu said while the immediate issue concerned the non-attendance of prosecution witnesses, it also highlighted broader administrative and coordination challenges within the criminal justice process.
“This (stronger internal systems) is needed to ensure that officers who are required to give evidence are properly monitored and supported in meeting their court obligations,” he said.
Mr Seruiratu said there must also be closer coordination between the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the police.
“Court attendance should not be left solely to the individual officer.
“Supervisors and officers in charge of police stations should be responsible for monitoring officers who have been served with witness summons and ensuring that they attend court as required.”
Mr Seruiratu said officers who failed to attend court without a lawful or reasonable excuse should face appropriate disciplinary action.
“Public confidence in the justice system depends on all public officers understanding that failing to comply with a court summons carries serious consequences. Accountability must be consistent and applied fairly.”
He also called for ongoing training and professional development to reinforce the importance of court attendance and the role police officers play in the administration of justice.
Mr Seruiratu said the proposed reforms were aimed at strengthening the professionalism, discipline and credibility of the police force rather than assigning blame.
