Officers return from South Sudan

“Thank you for respecting the United Nations call for the extension of your duty as well as adapting to the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic whilst in your areas of mission".

Words of appreciation uttered by the Director International Relations Senior Superintendent of Police Ulaiasi Ravula while officiating the opening of the three-day integration course for eleven officers who had returned from tour of duty in South Sudan and Darfur.

The re-integration course is designed to help returning officers familiarize themselves with new policies that were introduced while they were away on overseas duty.

Seven officers returned from Darfur after spending two years, while four others spent one year nine months in South Sudan under UNMISS [United Nation Mission In South Sudan].

A request was made to extend the duration of tour for officers serving under UNAMID for six months to assist with the phasing out operations conducted in Darfur before the new UN mandate came into effect.

SSP Ravula thanked the officers for their understanding as it was a positive reflection of Fiji’s commitment to heeding the call to serve under the UN banner especially as the COVID pandemic posed a new set of challenges for law enforcement.

He said it was a challenging period for most Fijians and to be separated from their loved ones would have been difficult.

SSP Ravula relayed the Acting Commissioner’s appreciation to the officers families for their unwavering support as their mission time was extended due to the pandemic.