Parliament fell into heavy silence yesterday as Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua rose to speak — for he carried not just the weight of his office, but the anguish of a father.
On Sunday, his daughter, a police officer, was critically injured in a violent, drug-related pursuit in Laqere, Nasinu.
Yet he stood before the House to answer questions about the attempted breach of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces armoury and the national Security Strategy, composed but visibly strained, choosing duty even as his family faced a fight for life.
“I am concerned as a father,” he said in a statement earlier where he confirmed one of the injured officers was his daughter.
“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 his focus was also on his daughter’s recovery.
Earlier, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and members of Parliament offered prayers and words of comfort, acknowledging both the personal tragedy and the courage it took to remain at work.
The incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday when officers attempted to stop a vehicle at a checkpoint. The driver allegedly fled, triggering a high-speed chase before striking officers. Drugs were later recovered, and the three suspects remain under guard while hospitalised.
Mr Tikoduadua spoke of the dangers officers face daily, describing the drug trade as a growing national security threat tied to organised crime.
He reaffirmed the Government’s support for ongoing joint operations between the police and the military, describing them as necessary to respond to evolving threats and maintain public safety.
He also urged members of the public to allow police to carry out their investigations without interference or speculation.
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