Decision made to call in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to assist Police - Qiliho

Police Commissioner, Brigadier General Sitiveni Qiliho says a decision has been reached now to call in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to assist Police with the maintenance of security and stability.

In a statement, Qiliho says this decision has been made as more information and reports are received by the Fiji Police Force and Republic of Fiji Military Forces of threats made against minority groups who are now living in fear following recent political developments. A meeting was held today between Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, Minister for Defence, National Security and Policing Inia Seruiratu, RFMF Commander and Director General National Security Major General Jone Kalouniwai and Qiliho, where they came to an agreement for RFMF personnel to assist Police with the maintenance of law and order, amidst growing concerns of racial tension. Qiliho says it’s a consensus decision based on official reports received, intelligence and information gathered, and the evaluation of the current security landscape where minority groups continue to be targeted and information of planned civil unrest, received.

Qiliho reiterates his earlier call for social media users to be mindful and aware of the implications their posts are having on the overall security landscape. The Police Commissioner says the continuous attacks on minority groups has aggravated the current tense situation. Qiliho says while the Army and Navy personnel have been called in to assist, Police will continue to lead the overall security operations led by the Chief Operations, ACP Abdul Khan who will be collaborating with the RFMF to ensure the safety and security of all Fijians as we see through the current political process.

We have asked Police on the number of cases of attacks against minority groups received, those under investigation and whether anyone is being questioned.

Police have not made any comments.