Chief Justice Salesi Temo has today confirmed that the judiciary is implementing measures after the disappearance of about $50 million worth of cocaine from two cases between March and September this year.
He confirms that a comprehensive security assessment of court premises nationwide is being done after the incidents at the Suva High Court Exhibit Room; a review of exhibit handling, storage, retention, and destruction procedures; upgrades to physical security infrastructure, including enhanced access control systems for sensitive and restricted areas; expansion and enhancement of CCTV coverage and monitoring capabilities within court facilities; strengthening chain-of-custody requirements and accountability measures for exhibits; a review of staff access privileges, registry controls, and security protocols; additional training and awareness programs for staff responsible for exhibit management and security; and the development of enhanced audit, compliance, and oversight mechanisms to strengthen accountability and transparency.
Chief Justice Temo says the judiciary is also assessing opportunities to modernise registry operations through improved technology, strengthened records management systems, enhanced inventory controls, and other measures designed to reduce risk and improve operational integrity.
He says public confidence in the judiciary is fundamental to the rule of law, and while the reported disappearance of exhibits is a matter of serious concern, it is equally important that the response is measured, professional, and focused on ensuring that such incidents cannot be repeated.
He says the judiciary views this matter with the utmost seriousness and is committed to ensuring that the facts are thoroughly established through the proper investigative process.
The Chief Justice says at the same time, they are taking decisive steps to strengthen security systems, modernise exhibit management practices, and enhance accountability across all court facilities.
He says they will continue to work closely with the Fiji Police Force and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that any deficiencies identified are addressed promptly and comprehensively.
Chief Justice Temo says as investigations remain active, it would be inappropriate to comment further on matters that may become the subject of criminal proceedings.
He confirms the judiciary is providing its full cooperation to the Fiji Police Force as investigations continue.
The Chief Justice says court officials have been directed to make available all relevant records, documentation, and information required by investigators, and the judiciary remains committed to supporting a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation.
He adds at this stage, the Police have advised that a number of persons of interest have been identified however, it is important to note that the concept of the rule of law, imported from Great Britain since the Deed of Cession in 1874, demands that persons of interest, are treated fairly within the four corners of the law.
Chief Justice Temo says that means that every person, who may later be accused of a crime, are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt, in a court of law; not in the court of social media.
He says should the investigation establish sufficient evidence of criminal wrongdoing, it will be for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to independently determine whether charges are to be laid.
The Chief Justice says if charges are laid by the Director of Public Prosecutions, the judiciary will ensure that the trial is carried out within a reasonable time, that is, a timeline under 2 years.
He says all due processes will be observed for the prosecution and the defence.
He adds at the conclusion of the trial, the appeal process will also be streamlined, a timeline of 12 months.
Chief Justice Temo says this matter is deeply concerning.
He says court exhibits are an integral part of the administration of justice and the integrity of criminal proceedings.
He adds their secure custody, management, and preservation are essential to ensuring fair trials, protecting the rights of all parties, maintaining public confidence in the justice system, and upholding the rule of law.
fijivillage News has asked Chief Justice Temo on whether a full audit will be conducted at all court exhibit rooms, and whether all the drug exhibits will be tested to confirm that they are actually drugs. He has not responded to this.Â
Police investigations continue into the cases of the missing cocaine from the Suva Court House.
Stay with us for developments.
