Tikoduadua can't comment on recent RFMF armoury incident as investigation continues

Minister for Defence, Pio Tikoduadua says as investigations are ongoing, he cannot comment on the actual conduct of the attempts that were made at the military camps.

This is after Opposition MP Premila Kumar asked whether the attempted breach of the RFMF armoury had been anticipated as a threat scenario within Fiji’s National Security Strategy.

The Minister warned that any breach or attempted breach of such facilities creates a serious security concern for the country.

Tikoduadua revealed that recent attempts to breach military facilities had tested existing electronic security systems, which he said were performing as intended.

The Minister says the systems are in place to stop such attempts, and any breach of an armoury or magazine is a serious offence and will be dealt with accordingly.

He says they are currently looking at the new Republic of Fiji Military Forces Act and Defence Act.

Tikoduadua emphasised that Fiji’s National Security Strategy remains the guiding framework for responding to events that may threaten national stability and critical infrastructure.

He says the National Security Strategy is the overarching framework for the recent incident that took place. 

He says members of the public in many places had called for the military to step in, but the Government was quite reluctant given the country’s history.

Insert: Tikoduadua on military and police 27th April

Tikoduadua says consultations are ongoing and the goal is to ensure that Fiji’s security forces can respond effectively and lawfully in protecting the nation.

He says the NSS does account for such risks, but stressed that investigations must be allowed to continue before further conclusions are drawn.

He also addressed questions on the proposed “hybrid model” of security operations, explaining that it was recommended by the National Security Strategy and Defence Review Committee.

Tikoduadua further says the model draws inspiration from international examples, such as arrangements in Australia’s Northern Territory, where military, police, and law enforcement agencies work together under clear legal frameworks while maintaining defined responsibilities.

He adds that the concept aims to improve coordination between security agencies when responding to serious national threats, while ensuring proper legal authority and role separation.