The RFMF will respect whatever the outcome is and we urge everyone to do likewise – Army Commander

Army Commander, Major General Jone Kalouniwai says the Republic of Fiji Military Forces is only requested “to assist” and therefore the Police is still in control and is leading all operations in the country.

Major General Kalouniwai says the RFMF will respect whatever the outcome is and they urge everyone to do likewise.

He says on the other hand, they do know that there are people out there who would like to take advantage of this situation, and they appeal that these people refrain from doing so.

The Commander says the Police and the RFMF (in its supporting role) will within the bounds of the law do all it can to deter and prevent such illegal irresponsible actions or activities to occur.

He says let common sense prevail with everyone remaining calm by respecting the law and the much awaited outcomes.

Major General Kalouniwai stresses the RFMF does not take over or lead Police responsibilities, but is available to assist and support the Police upon request.

He says this request by Police Commissioner, Brigadier General Sitiveni Qiliho requesting for RFMF support is a normal procedure that the Police would use when they would require the RFMF’s assistance.

Major General Kalouniwai says it must be clear that not all threats, nor those that threaten our security, are equal in their potential for harm, but all threats to our security that are brought to the attention of the Fiji Police Force or the RFMF will be taken seriously, evaluated, verified and acted upon in proportion to the level of threat assessed.

The Army Commander says the Police Commissioner’s request comes in light of the growing rhetoric shared openly on social media and those gathered through the various information received by both the Police and the RFMF.

He says some of the threats identified highlight a growing amount that warns of an imminent violent act happening unless certain demands or terms are met.

The Commander says other threats suggest a specific target, whilst others are still being assessed due to them being vague, unclear, and ambiguous.

Major General Kalouniwai says the only way the RFMF can support the Police legally in any normal situation is by request from Police Commissioner.

He assures the people that their responsibilities here is to assist the Police.