COMPOL says it is easy to assume things based on a video that shows only one side of the story

Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu is reiterating calls for members of the public to cooperate with Police or face possible charges.

This follows a video shared on social media of a police officer trying to settle a dispute between two parties at the Nasinu Police Station over the custody of a child.

Police say the circumstances that led to the short video that was posted on social media began with heated exchanges between two couples over the custody of a child.

They say an argument arose between the two parties resulting in heated exchanges and the use of offensive and vulgar language.

Police say one of the men refused to cooperate, prompting the officer to step in.

Tudravu has directed the investigation be conducted against the individual, and stated that should he want to lodge a counter report he may do so, with Internal Affairs advised to take over the investigation once reported.

COMPOL says it is easy to assume things based on a video that showed only one side of the story, and they will take accountability if the officer is in the wrong.

Tudravu adds he has repeated his warnings internally on the need to maintain professionalism, but at the same time, he will stand by officers if they are performing their duties to the best of their abilities considering the situation they face which can be volatile at times.