Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs Pio Tikoduadua has confirmed that a police officer seriously injured during a checkpoint incident in Laqere is his daughter.
In a statement, Tikoduadua said the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday at a joint checkpoint involving the Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.
“At approximately 3am, officers on duty encountered a vehicle that failed to stop. A pursuit followed through the Nakasi corridor and back toward Laqere,” he said.
“During the attempt to stop the vehicle, a police officer was struck and sustained serious injuries. She is currently receiving treatment at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital and remains in a serious but stable condition.”
Tikoduadua revealed the injured officer was on duty at the time of the incident.
“The officer is my daughter. She was on duty at the checkpoint at the time of the incident,” he said.
He confirmed that suspects have been arrested and that items believed to be illicit drugs were recovered from the vehicle, with investigations continuing.
“This incident reflects the level of risk that officers face in responding to drug-related activity. Drugs are not only a policing issue — they present a national security concern. They are linked to organised activity and increase the likelihood of violence,” he said.
Tikoduadua stressed that joint operations between police and the military will continue to address such threats and maintain public safety.
“I am concerned as a father. I am also clear in my responsibilities as Minister. The work being carried out by our officers must continue, and those responsible for this incident will be dealt with through the law,” he said.
He also called on the public to allow authorities to carry out their investigations without interference.
“I ask the public to allow the Police to complete their investigations and to avoid speculation. My focus remains on her recovery and on supporting the officers who continue their duties.”
