Fiji’s Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew and senior members of the police hierarchy have taken the lead in undergoing drug tests as part of efforts to create a drug-free and corruption-free police force, as well as change public perception.
Chew announced that the Fiji Police Force is finalising a mandatory drug testing policy, which has been developed in consultation with the Solicitor General’s Office.
“While we await the final policy, members of the inner core—including the Acting Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioners of Police—will undergo drug testing so as to clear the senior hierarchy, as well as members of the Command group consisting of Directors and senior officers,” Chew said.
The new policy which will incorporate international best practices aims to address public concerns about police involvement in drug-related activities.
“We recognise that the lack of trust in policing stems from a number of issues, one of which is the involvement of police officers in drug-related activities,” Chew said. “We want a clean and drug-free institution, free from officers who use drugs or any corrupt practices linked to drugs.”
The mandatory drug testing policy is part of a wider effort to maintain professional standards within the force, Chew said.
He also stated that misconduct or breaches related to drug enforcement will not be tolerated, adding that all forthcoming policies will undergo thorough review with the SG’s office.
