20 police officers return from mission in the Solomon island

The Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew and senior officers welcomed back 20 Police officers who were members of the Joint Solomon Islands International Assistance Force joint Cori Mada 3 Task Force with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

The Acting Commissioner awaited the arrival of the officers at the Fiji Police Academy in Nasova on Friday, where a traditional ceremony of welcome was accorded to the returning contingent led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Simione Tamanisau.

The Acting Commissioner said, “What was evident over the duration of the deployment, was the collective will and determination to support our fellow pacific island law enforcement.

Also evident was our ability to quickly deploy a joint contingent, auguring well with current efforts of consolidating regional efforts under the Pacific Policing Initiative”.

Fiji’s deployment was a significant demonstration of Fiji’s commitment to supporting the Solomon Islands Government through theSolomons International Assistance Force (SIAF) in supporting the Solomon Islands in maintaining law and order.

The Acting Commissioner added, “Your efforts epitomized the value of family, the importanceof respect and understanding, where you went in, and implemented strategies that were best applicable to the Solomon Island community consistent with the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police’s intent of “By the Pacific for the pacific”.

“We have received positive feedback and reviews of your contribution towards the overarching intent of the joint deployment. You have continued the proud legacy between the Fiji Police Force and Royal Solomon Islands Police.

Know that your achievements will be used as an example under various initiatives underway suchas the Pacific Policing Initiative – so your contribution does not end upon your arrival back home”.

The Acting Commissioner also acknowledged the families of the 20 officers for their sacrifice and support towards policing efforts as the officers deployment was extended following requests from the Solomon Islands Government.

The FijiPolice Force also acknowledges the support of the Australian Government, Solomon Islands Government, Australian Federal Police, Australian Defence Force and New Zealand DDefence Force.