All police officers in the Counter Narcotics Bureau recalled as 2 arrested for alleged drug possession

All police officers who are currently serving in the Counter Narcotics Bureau will need to return to their units immediately.

Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua confirms this is being done to improve the operational effectiveness and efficiency of the Counter Narcotics Bureau.

This comes after two police officers were arrested in Suva yesterday for their alleged unlawful possession of illicit drugs.

Naivalurua says the Ministry will undertake a proper selection process to identify suitable candidates to join this specialised unit.

The Minister says candidates must have a proven record of integrity, be ethic-solid, resilient and are able to perform professionally in highly strenuous work environment and conditions.

He says the country’s Counter Narcotics Bureau is currently being developed and is anticipated to be in full operations by the end of this fiscal year.

While speaking on the arrest of the two officers, Naivalurua says this development reassures members of the public that no one is above the law.

He says as the Minister for Policing, he stresses that the arrest of these officers is a clear demonstration of the Fiji Police Force’s commitment to accountability and integrity.

Naivalurua says police officers who betray their oath and the trust placed in them by the public will face the full brunt of the law, just like any other citizen.

He has commended the Fiji Police Force, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, and the Australian Federal Police for their collaborative efforts towards the Counter Narcotics Bureau .

Naivalurua says this partnership reflects their united front in the ongoing fight against illicit drugs, which continue to threaten the safety and wellbeing of our communities.

He has also thanked the many men and women of the Fiji Police Force who continue to serve with honour and integrity for their commitment.

The Minister is reassuring the public that the majority of officers are dedicated to protecting our nation and upholding the values of justice, transparency, and service.

He says the Coalition Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, stands firmly with the Commissioner of Police in his resolve to remove those who compromise the integrity of the Force.

Naivalurua says they remain steadfast in their fight against drugs and in their mission to strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.

He says investigations into this matter are continuing, and is calling on all Fijians to support the collective effort to rid our nation of this scourge.